Portland appoints Dr Jane Brearley as head of health

London-based communications agency Portland has promoted Dr Jane Brearley to head of health.

With over 18 years of experience in healthcare communications, Brearley joined Portland in May 2014 from Publicis Life Brands Resolute and became a partner in January 2015.

Brearley said: “I am incredibly excited. This year has been amazing and I am so proud of what we have achieved and what we will achieve next year.”

Portland saw growth of over 30% during 2015 and is now a 14-strong practice.

Portland Health's UK managing director Oliver Pauley said: “After a year of incredible growth and exceptional new business wins, I am delighted that Jane will lead the health team.”

“It's a very exciting time for the practise and we have an ambitious plan for next year, including significant investment in new specialisms such as medical education.”

Dr Brearley's promotion follows the departure of joint-head of health Louise Fish, who left the company at the beginning of the year.

Pauley said: “When Louise and I first discussed developing a health practise at Portland in 2012, I don't think either of us could have imagined how successful it has become.

“I am very grateful for her commitment to the business and wish her very well for her future plans.”

Fish has since joined Tonic Life Communications as a senior director, public affairs and corporate communications.