Ketchum Pleon appoints new healthcare head

Ketchum Pleon has announced the appointment of Amanda Sefton as the new managing director of its healthcare practice in London with immediate effect.

Ms Sefton replaces Susannah Knox, who will be leaving the agency in July 2011, and is to take responsibility for the practice's strategic direction, business development and recruitment initiatives.

A former director of healthcare for the wider Ketchum Pleon organisation, she is a 13-year public relations veteran who has spent several years working with businesses in Asia.

Ms Sefton will be supported in her new role by healthcare directors Sebastian Desprez and Alex Watson, as well as the outgoing Ms Knox, who will continue to work with the company to facilitate the transition process.

Avril Lee, deputy chief executive officer at Ketchum Pleon, said: "Amanda is a proven leader and counsellor to clients and colleagues alike."

The Ketchum group currently employs more than 2,000 staff members in 66 nations and serves healthcare sector clients that include Novartis and Roche.