McCann Health creates new global consultancy

Global health communications network McCann Health has launched a new agency specialising in high profile issues such as drug pricing and market access.

The consultancy business - called Consulting at McCann Health - will offer business strategy services to pharma, with the guiding principle of transforming companies' outlook from product plugging to a more holistic brand strategy.

John Cahill, McCann Health Global chief executive, said: “With Consulting at McCann Health, we add significant depth and breadth to our global strategic offering to provide clients with more innovative strategic counsel as they shift their approach from 'creating new molecules' to 'rewarding outcomes'.

“This shift will present significant opportunities for pharmaceutical companies to operate more as brands that promote improved wellbeing throughout people's lives, rather than as companies that market specific products.”

The McCann network's global chief business strategy officer, former Novartis executive Simon Holt, will lead the new consulting venture, with offices in London, New York and Tokyo.

Holt will oversee 120 employees at the agency, which will integrate the Double Helix agency McCann acquired in 2012. Consulting at McCann Health will also have access to a further 200 employees from across the network.

He added: “Consulting at McCann Health consolidates our global strategic offering and expands our suite of services for clients.

“These services now range from business strategy to market research and access, right through to the development of innovative digital solutions to help clients engage the newly empowered consumer in more meaningful and relevant ways.”