JPA Health Communications has named Valerie Carter as head of its new office in London.
Carter, who has been with JPA since 2011, has more than 22 years’ experiences in global public affairs, advocacy and media relations, including a long spell at the pharma company Merck & Co.
“I’m grateful for Valerie’s leadership and dedication to the agency,” said Carrie Jones, principal and managing director of JPA.
“Her experience serving the European market will help us enhance our global services while building a thriving practice in London.”
Before joining JPA, Carter was vice president of public affairs at Ricochet PR, responsible for managing and directing all public affairs accounts and projects, focusing on supporting healthcare organisations.
Prior to this she spent 15 years at Merck, ultimately leading the company’s government affairs communications efforts, with a focus on extensive grassroots legislative action, Political Action Committee programmes and lobbying.
“I am excited about building a team in London that will expand JPA’s capabilities, broaden our experiences and bring unparalleled service to our clients in the EU,” she said.
JPA provides health communications for charity, pharmaceutical and medical device clients. The agency is known for its work in influencer relations, a targeted approach to reaching stakeholders who engage others.