Industry update

Porter Novelli leaders launch MGR&CO

by Telum Media

3 February 2026 3:52 AM

2 mins read

Porter Novelli Australia leaders Arj Ganeshalingam, Patrick McClelland and Rhys Ryan have launched MGR&CO, an independent, full-service communications and advisory firm serving corporations, brands, non-profits and government agencies.

MGR’s founders bring collective experience advising organisations on reputation, corporate affairs, national public awareness and change campaigns, and crisis preparation and response.

The firm's offering spans communications strategy, campaigns and content, reputation management and communications training, with creative capabilities to support end-to-end design and production. The firm will serve key sectors, including education, financial services, government, health, food manufacturing, professional services, retail and technology.

MGR Director, Arj Ganeshalingam, while working for Porter Novelli, played a long-term role overseeing communications and reputation for Clemenger Group.

“We’re grateful for everything we learned leading one of Clemenger Group’s most respected operating companies. We were taught to focus on exceptional client service, the quality of our work and growing careers for our people at Porter Novelli,” he said.

“At the same time, we were always trusted to run the firm ourselves and act responsibly – which we did successfully for many years. We fostered an entrepreneurial spirit alongside our clients and are now excited to enter this new chapter.”

Clemenger Group chairman, Robert Morgan said: "Arj, Rhys and Patrick are the best communications professionals I’ve ever worked with and did a brilliant job with Porter Novelli for Clemenger Group. From the knottiest problems to the biggest opportunities, they are exceptional practitioners who always delivered for their clients.

“Starting their own firm as MGR&CO is the best move they could make. I believe they will do brilliantly, unshackled.”

(Pictured L - R: Rhys Ryan, Arj Ganeshalingam and Patrick McClelland)

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