DEERFIELD, IL: Differences with senior management over PR policy
and direction has prompted Matthew Gonring to resign his position as VP
of corporate communications at Baxter International.
Gonring joined Baxter 13 months ago, agreeing at the time to report to
Michael Tucker, SVP of human resources and communications.
"However, at the end of the day, it comes down to the fact that I didn't
work for the CEO; I worked for the head of human resources, and we had
somewhat different views," said Gonring, who plans to stay at Baxter
until the end of the year to help with transition issues.
Sources said Gonring's high profile in the PR business rattled Baxter's
management. Gonring said only, "They want someone who is more internally
focused."
Now, Gonring is "looking for a company that really understands the value
of PR," adding that he'd consider relocating.