Global public relations leader Porter Novelli announced that Alicia Thompson has been named managing director of the agency's Atlanta office. As managing director, Thompson is responsible for talent management and strategic growth while driving measureable business results for clients. She joined Porter Novelli on April 24 and reports to Jennifer Swint, president, North America.

"Alicia is an incredible leader who will deliver immediate impact for our clients, our agency culture and the growth of our talent," said Swint. "Her market knowledge, communications expertise and proven ability to motivate and inspire others makes her the perfect addition to our team. We know that her talent and skills will amplify our ability to surprise and delight our clients in the Atlanta market and beyond."   

Thompson has over two decades of experience in public relations and communications. She joins Porter Novelli from Edelman, where she was the general manager of the firm's Atlanta office. In that role, she oversaw operations and talent and was responsible for developing and maintaining a dynamic client roster. Thompson was formerly a senior vice president in Edelman's consumer practice, working with clients such as Arby's Restaurant Group, Interface, Teavana and Nestle/Gerber. Prior to that, she spent nine years on the communications team at the multinational food chain Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. During this time, she managed the development and execution of all internal and external communications. Earlier in her career, Thompson held a public relations position at The Coca-Cola Company on the North American brands team.

"I'm excited to embark on this next chapter in my career and to do so with Porter Novelli. Jack Porter and Bill Novelli founded a firm that leverages public relations communications to make a positive social impact on the world. I want to be a part of that purposeful work," said Thompson. "I look forward to helping our team and clients in Atlanta and across the network continue to drive positive business outcomes." 

Thompson earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a master's degree in speech communications from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She has earned notable recognition, including winning four PRSA Georgia Order of the Phoenix awards and being named one of the National Diversity Council's most powerful and influential women.