Porter Novelli Bolsters Creative Team with 2 Strategic Hires

Porter Novelli, the strategic communications company built to Do Business Better, has announced the appointment of two senior creative leaders onto its Strategic Services team. Kam Ajerdi has been named US executive creative director based out of the agency’s New York City headquarters, and Rowan Adams has been appointed UK creative director based out of London. 

Strategic Services is the engine powering the new organisational structure that Porter Novelli’s global CEO Jillian Janaczek is rolling out via her 2024 PN NEXT strategy. Within this engine lies six capabilities including data + analytics, strategy + insights, creative + studio, digital + innovation, earned + influencer, and paid + platforms. Adding both Kam and Rowan’s award-winning creative clout to the team is the  company’s latest talent move in its new era of influence. 

“Porter Novelli is evolving the industry to combine a data-led and digital-first approach with an earned first creative solution that integrates sharp minds with smart data to solve complex business challenges,” shared Jillian Janaczek, global CEO. “Strategic, creative thinking is a critical step to doing this effectively for our clients, and Kam and Rowan are primed to take lead roles in this part of the business.” 

Kam joins Porter Novelli from Zeno Group where he most recently was SVP, group creative director. His prior roles were at Wunderman Thompson, where he was creative director, Publicis Groupe, and Havas Worldwide. 

“The rapid adoption of new technologies in the market and complexity of consumer preferences demands sophisticated ways of thinking and working, along with vibrant creative energies, noted Kam. “I am excited to help Porter Novelli further accelerate client solutions through innovation, collaboration, and creativity.” 

Rowan brings deep experience working with entertainment and consumer brands. He comes to Porter Novell from PLAY, the creative PR agency he founded, which was named PR Week's Best New Consultancy  of the Year, 2021.

“Porter Novelli’s legacy as one of the smartest agencies in the game is an irresistible draw,” commented Rowan. “Communicating at the speed of culture requires data, strategy, and creative license, all of which lie at the heart of our Strategic Services engine. I am thrilled to join Porter Novelli during its next evolution.” 

Kam and Rowan mark the third and fourth strategic hires in 2024 under Jillian Janaczek.