Edelman's AI Odyssey: Navigating a New Era of Innovation and Leadership

In a bold strategic maneuver signaling a new chapter for the world's largest public relations firm, Edelman is not just dipping its toes into the waters of artificial intelligence—it's diving headfirst. This significant embrace of AI is coupled with a substantial leadership reconfiguration, positioning the agency for what it believes is an inevitable, AI-driven future in communications.

It's a clear declaration: Edelman is determined to lead the charge in harnessing technology to redefine the very essence of earned media and client engagement.

At the heart of this transformation is Judy John, the acclaimed global chief creative officer, whose remit is now dramatically expanded.

John will now oversee all of Edelman’s creative, digital, and content capabilities, effectively becoming the lynchpin for integrating these crucial areas into a cohesive, innovative powerhouse. Her elevated role underscores a recognition that creativity, powered by digital prowess and infused with AI, will be paramount in delivering impactful campaigns.

This isn't merely a title change; it's a strategic consolidation designed to foster a seamless, integrated approach to client solutions.

Simultaneously, Lisa Osborne Ross, formerly the CEO of Edelman U.S., is transitioning into a vital new role as president of Edelman Global Advisory. In this capacity, Ross will bring her profound expertise to advising clients at the highest echelons, particularly focusing on the increasingly complex intersection of geopolitical dynamics, corporate purpose, and societal impact.

This move allows Edelman to leverage her strategic insight in a specialized, high-value consulting function, reinforcing the firm's commitment to guiding clients through intricate global challenges.

Edelman’s proactive stance on AI isn't a reaction to a trend; it's a calculated investment in innovation.

The firm has established an internal AI Task Force, spearheaded by John and overseen by CEO Richard Edelman, dedicated to exploring, developing, and deploying AI solutions across its operations. From enhancing data analytics and content creation to streamlining workflow and improving targeting, AI is envisioned as a foundational layer that will amplify Edelman's existing strengths and unlock new opportunities for clients.

The goal is clear: to leverage AI not as a replacement for human ingenuity, but as a powerful co-pilot, enabling teams to deliver smarter, faster, and more creative outcomes.

This strategic pivot also reinforces Edelman's long-standing commitment to helping companies navigate the 'say/do gap'—the critical disparity between what a company says it stands for and what it actually does.

By enhancing its digital and creative capabilities with AI, Edelman aims to help clients build more authentic, transparent, and impactful communications strategies that resonate deeply with stakeholders. In an age of heightened scrutiny, the ability to weave compelling narratives backed by genuine actions is more crucial than ever.

As the PR industry rapidly evolves, grappling with new technologies and shifting media landscapes, Edelman's latest moves position it not just for survival, but for sustained leadership.

By boldly restructuring its leadership and making AI a central pillar of its strategy, Edelman is sending a clear message: it's ready to innovate, adapt, and define the next generation of public relations, ensuring its clients remain at the forefront of influence and trust in an ever-changing world.