REGIONAL–GolinHarris(高诚公关) has appointed Simon Ruparelia to lead its digital team in Asia Pacific. This newly created post underlines the strategic importance of digital communications for GolinHarris, and is another step in the implementation of its new g4 model. Prior to joining the agency, Ruparelia was the global programme planner of digital marketing for Unilever, responsible for driving digital activities and initiatives across Unilever’s global FMCG brands. “This is the first strategic hire in Asia Pacific under our new g4 model,” said Jonathan Hughes, president, international. “Simon is an amazing talent with boundless drive and energy and has enviable brand credentials. He will make a significant contribution to the development of our global digital expertise and to the integrated work we are doing in Asia Pacific.” In June, GolinHarris unveiled a major reorganisation of the agency to address the increasing influence of digital and social media in communications, and the challenges of engaging audiences in a complex, constantly connected environment. The agency’s new model, called g4, is built around four global teams of dedicated specialists, in contrast to the traditional agency structure of communications generalists in a seniority-based hierarchy. In the g4 model, clients are served by integrated teams of dedicated experts (strategists, creators, catalysts and connectors) who deliver actionable insights, bold ideas, multi-media engagement and flawless, integrated execution. “GolinHarris is already delivering first rate, strategic and creative digital campaigns,” said Ruparelia. “The experience I have had at Unilever working on global and local brands means I can help accelerate the development of Golin’s digital capabilities in the region.” Based initially in Singapore, Ruparelia will lead and build the Asia Pacific specialism working closely with Jeff Beringer, leader of the agency’s digital team.