Newport woman Helen Wild has been appointed as managing director of Cardiff-based PR, marketing and digital comms agency Equinox, taking over from founder and former MD, Eryl Jones, who moves into the role of executive chairman.

After joining as a Cardiff University journalism graduate in 2007, Helen has risen through the ranks, spending the last two years growing the agency’s integrated communications offer, working with clients including Staedtler UK and Welsh Government, in her role as associate director.

She’ll now be responsible for further developing the company’s services and leading an ambitious business plan.

A former winner of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations Wales’ Outstanding Young Communicator Award, Helen served as a CIPR Wales committee member for six years before last year stepping down to take on a new position with the Chartered Institute of Marketing Wales Board.

Helen said: “It’s really helped that my career has grown in parallel with social media and the changing media landscape. I’ve always embraced, and even thrived on, change.

“This, combined with my passion for social media and determination to get the best results for my clients, allowed me to carve a role as an integrated comms specialist, which opened-up lots of opportunities.

"I’m excited to be at the forefront in this continually changing industry, steering the agency through an ambitious business development plan while continuing to deliver an outstanding service to our clients.”

Eryl Jones said: “It is very pleasing to appoint Helen who possesses the skillset to grow and expand the business and attract new clients.

“Upskilling and training staff is a core company value, to create an environment that nurtures and supports talent, and I very much look forward to working closely with Helen as we embark on the next phase of our growth plan.”