FitzPatrick, who most recently ran his own specialist consultancy Working Communications, will draw on existing resources from across the Chime Group to help expand the new unit.

Kevin Murray, Bell Pottinger chairman, said: ‘Clients are increasingly looking to integrate external messaging with communication to employees. We have been successful at advising on a number of combined internal and external projects and the market is presenting a number of new and exciting opportunities.'

FitzPatrick said: ‘This is industry leading. I will be able to draw on digital, media, public affairs, branding, issues management and other expert communicators from across the group to help clients.'

FitzPatrick worked at Bell Pottinger several years ago, but left to become global head of internal comms for Marconi.

In his new role he will report to David Wilson, chairman of Bell Pottinger Public Relations.