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Winner: Chris Perry
President, Digital Communications, Weber Shandwick
In 2010, Chris Perry spearheaded the Pepsi Refresh Project—a $20 million investment directed toward ideas that move communities forward. If you're looking for impressive results, look no further than the campaign helping PepsiCo jump from #16 to #5 in the power rankings of the U.S.' most reputable brands, according to Forbes.
When client American Airlines' passengers began tweeting while their plane was halted due to a bomb threat, Chris' team advised American Airlines to respond quickly and openly with not only the frightened passengers but the general public as well. The airline was subsequently commended for effective social crisis management.
In addition to impressive campaigns in the field, Chris has also set up an internal network at Weber Shandwick that fosters digital education and engagement via online social media courses and blogs to better position his team for its digital ventures. He has also overseen the creation of new digital tools for Weber Shandwick clients, including the “FireBell” crisis simulator. —SP
College Attended: University of Dayton
Years in PR: 15+
Most Inspiring Athlete: Justin Verlander
Favorite Movie: Pulp Fiction
Favorite Current TV Show: Boardwalk Empire
Favorite Business City: Los Angeles
Best Way to Unwind from PR: Pub nights
What’s Sexier: Page 1 placement in WSJ or a video that goes viral—1 million views? A video that goes viral.
Honorable Mentions:
Jeff Beringer, Executive Director, Digital Practice Leader, GolinHarris: Jeff Beringer created The Bridge for GH to monitor media and find media opportunities in real time.
Sam Ford, Director of Digital Strategy, Peppercom: Relying on his own comprehensive research, Sam Ford developed Peppercom’s approach to guiding social media recommendations.
Jared Hendler, EVP, Global Director Digital & Creative, MWW Group: The Dialogue Digital division, led by Jared Hendler, not only increased billings by almost 100%, but also quadrupled in size in 2010.
Sarah Hofstetter, Senior VP, 360i: Sarah Hofstetter helped build her Brand Strategy & Emerging Media team by adding 30 new members—a growth of 75%.
Evan Kraus, Senior VP, APCO Worldwide: Under Kraus’ leadership, APCO published the Social EQ, a study that enables companies to more effectively plot their social media efforts.
Holly Potter, VP Public Relations, Kaiser Permanente: Holly Potter’s team developed the interactive display exhibits at the KP Center for Total Health, and executed a multifaceted digital PR campaign for the center’s opening.