Ruder Finn Launches Global Mobile and Telecom Practice

Public Relations and Mobile Industry Veteran Christine Bock to Lead Group

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Apr 21, 2011, 12:00 ET

NEW YORK, April 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- On the heels of several strategic client wins in consumer and B2B mobile communications, Ruder Finn today announced the formation of an expanded global mobile and telecom practice to be led by industry veteran Christine Bock. Bock will be supported by a core team of more than one dozen mobile and telecom specialists located throughout the United States and abroad.

Prior to joining Ruder Finn, Bock founded and was CEO of Southern California-based Bock Communications, an award-winning public relations firm focused primarily on B2C and B2B mobile and telecom companies. Since launching the company in 1995, Bock has advised more than 85 mobile and telecom brands, both emerging and established, on how to build their business.

"Creating a Mobile and Telecom Practice was a natural step for Ruder Finn, given our long-time involvement in this arena, which is now bolstered by Christine and her valuable experience in the industry," said Richard Funess, president, Ruder Finn/Americas. "This is a strategic step, which will help us capitalize on the globalization of economies and cultures in which wireless communications is the bedrock of commerce, lifestyle, education and everything in between."

Funess stated that, as founder of Bock Communications, "Christine established herself as an expert in the field when it was still emerging, and today is widely-recognized by top industry executives for her strategic thinking." According to Funess, she "enhances our talented team of professionals who, like her, are experts in communicating how every aspect of the mobile ecosystem touches our daily lives."

The Global Mobile and Telecom Practice is currently comprised of existing client engagements in the B2B and consumer sector, along with several new relationships with companies such as Vonage, WiSpry, Box Tone, Symphony Technologies and AVG Technologies. The practice is devoted to all areas of mobile and telecom, including hardware, software, applications, manufacturing, and consumer brands.

"Leading Ruder Finn's Mobile and Telecom Practice is a natural progression for my work in these industries, and I am honored to be a part of Ruder Finn's expert team," said Bock. "There is a great deal of potential within this market, and I'm certain that our talent, resources and experience will ensure that our clients stay ahead of the competition and be recognized as thought leaders."

About Ruder Finn

Ruder Finn is one of the world's largest independent PR agencies, with wholly-owned offices in the U.S., in Asia, Europe and an affiliate network throughout Latin America. Expertise includes reputation management, branding, cultural and social issues, and intent driven social media through its digital practices.

SOURCE Ruder Finn