has joined as a consultant.

In her new role, Ms Ranson will be responsible for advising on communication challenges, managing potential media crises, monitoring the media, writing press releases, newsletters and positioning statements, and liaising with the media as well as with clients. She will report to managing director Elizabeth Tee.

Prior to moving to Bermuda, Ms Ranson worked for five years in corporate communications with the Ontario provincial government in Canada, with her responsibilities extending to advising cabinet ministers and senior management on communications issues, coordinating the rollout of government programmes and services through public announcements, media events and marketing initiatives, and leading the development of a long-term strategic communications vision for the delivery of welfare in Ontario.

In the past, Emily managed communications for a provincial disaster assistance programme, including launching an annual marketing campaign. In addition to her professional responsibilities, Emily has also handled media relations for an independent film festival held in Toronto at the Royal Ontario Museum.

Ms Tee said: ?I am really pleased that Emily is joining our team.

?I am confident that her PR experience and strategic planning skills will greatly benefit our clients as we assist them to shape their images, build solid reputations and maximise relationships with their target audiences.

?Appointing Emily to this position is part of my continued commitment to meet clients? growing needs for public relations and communications campaigns as a cost effective and influential part of their marketing programmes.?