Weber Shandwick Southwest Announces New Leadership Team

- Neil Nowlin Appointed General Manager -

- Key Promotions, Staff Changes Prime Region for Continued Success and Growth -

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May 30, 2012, 10:32 ET

DALLAS, May 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Weber Shandwick, a leading global public relations firm, today announced that Neil Nowlin has been named general manager of its Southwest region, which includes operations in Dallas, Austin and Houston. Nowlin will report to Weber Shandwick North America president Cathy Calhoun.

"Neil is a proven leader and sought-after counselor who brings strategic perspective, clarity and creativity to everything he does," said Calhoun. "He's the perfect choice to lead our operations in Texas. He will be an important addition to our team of senior leaders across North America and around the world."

Nowlin has been with Weber Shandwick since 2003 and has nearly 20 years of experience in public affairs, corporate reputation and crisis communications. He's spent the majority of his career helping clients successfully protect and build public confidence.

In addition, Dawn Kahle has been named deputy general manager of Weber Shandwick Southwest and will support Nowlin in a variety of operational and business development roles. Kahle, also with the firm for ten years, has been a driving force leading public relations programs for national consumer and healthcare, consumer technology and enterprise software clients. She has been integral in supporting the growth and success of the Southwest region.

To further bolster the Weber Shandwick Southwest leadership team, Ryan Mikolasik has been promoted to executive vice president, client relationship leader (CRL) for the American Airlines business after serving in several key roles on that account for more than eight years. Dave Nieland, who had served as the office's interim general manager, has also been named the head of the Southwest Technology practice.

Other Dallas-based staffers are taking on broader roles as well. Chris Vary has been named executive vice president, digital program innovation, and senior vice president Teisha Van De Kop is evolving The Studio @ Weber Shandwick to focus on digital and video content creation and syndication for Weber Shandwick North America.

"The passion, insights and expertise our team brings to work every day is extraordinary," said Nowlin. "I'm honored to take on this leadership position and will be focused on providing our clients with ideas that drive business results in this rapidly evolving communications environment."

About Weber Shandwick

Weber Shandwick is a leading global public relations agency with offices in 81 countries around the world. The firm's success is built on its deep commitment to client service, our people, creativity, collaboration and engaging stakeholders in new and creative ways to build brands and reputation. Weber Shandwick provides strategy and execution across practices such as consumer marketing, healthcare, technology, public affairs, financial services, corporate and crisis management. Its specialized services include digital/social media, advocacy advertising, market research, and corporate responsibility. The firm has also won numerous 'best place to work' awards around the world. Weber Shandwick is part of the Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG). For more information, visit http://www.webershandwick.com.