Exclusive: TrailRunner expands leadership team, names Kozlak as U.S. head
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Strategic communications firm TrailRunner International has expanded its leadership team to keep pace with its continued growth, the firm first told Axios.
Driving the news: TrailRunner has elevated Zack Kozlak to oversee its U.S. practice, Sarah Grubbs to chief growth officer, Pat Shortridge to head of corporate and public affairs and Georgia Walker as head of the London office.
- Other promotions include Kelly Wallace as chief media and brand officer, Lauren DiGeronimo as head of client operations, Seth Hand as head of international, Eric Bormann as head of Dallas/Fort Worth, Johanna Hoopes as head of Nashville, Jennifer Potthoff as chief administrative officer, Teresa Henderson as head of client success and Hannah Guenther as director based in Dubai.
Zoom in: TrailRunner increased revenue by 17% in 2024, which it attributes to its growing international, sports and litigation practices.
- The 80-person firm — which serves clients like the Dallas Cowboys, Spotify and Bain Capital — also recently opened new offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
What they're saying: "There is a lot of momentum in the business as we enter 2025, and this group of proven leaders will help us accelerate our growth while reinforcing our unwavering focus on delivering for clients and maintaining our culture of hard work, collaboration, and excellence," said TrailRunner CEO Jim Hughes.
The big picture: Economic headwinds, consolidations and layoffs continue to shape the agency landscape in 2025.
- Yes, but: Specialty firms with expertise in health care, public affairs, corporate affairs and finance have proven to be more resilient to economic challenges, according to a recent Davis+Gilbert report.
More on Axios: "Challenger" firms rising: Top PR talent defect from big agencies
