Public Affairs: Edelman to lose Burrell

PR Week UK, Friday, 01 July 2011, 12:00am,

Edelman's European vice-chairman Michael Burrell was set to make a shock departure from the agency as PRWeek went to press.

Burrell, a widely respected industry figure, joined the agency in 2002. He was previously MD of legendary lobbying firm Westminster Strategy. Burrell declined to comment and it is not known whether he has a new role lined up. In an email to staff, Edelman EMEA CEO Robert Phillips praised Burrell, saying he had 'decided to explore other opportunities'.

Bell Pottinger Public Affairs chairman Peter Bingle, a former colleague, said: 'He was a superb boss who taught me a great deal. His arrival at Edelman gave it credibility in public affairs.'