Archives: The News

MINNEAPOLIS (Sept. 6, 2018) – Padilla today announced employee promotions across several of its industry and functional groups. These 14 individuals were recognized for their contributions at Padilla and FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Minneapolis

Amy Fisher was promoted from senior director to vice president in Padilla’s Technology Practice. She started with Padilla as an intern and has steadily grown and expanded her expertise in B2B communication in health care, manufacturing, technology and agriculture.

Danielle Engholm was promoted from senior director to vice president in Padilla’s Manufacturing Practice. She has spent her career counseling manufacturing and technology clients on B2B marketing, public relations and thought leadership campaigns.

Kris Patrow was promoted from director to senior director in Padilla’s Corporate Practice. With prior experience in broadcast journalism, she provides media relations, spokesperson training, and crisis and issues management to clients in health care and corporate settings.

Amy Jensen was promoted from account supervisor to director in Padilla’s Agriculture + Environmental Sciences Practice.

Dani Jurisz was promoted from account supervisor to director in Padilla’s Manufacturing Practice.

Leanne Hanson was promoted from account supervisor to director in Padilla’s Manufacturing Practice.

New York

Viviana Pinzon Correa was promoted from account supervisor to director in Padilla’s Food + Beverage Practice.

Nicole Fischer was promoted from account supervisor to director in Padilla’s Consumer Practice.

Rachel McPherson was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor in Padilla’s Food + Beverage Practice.

Amanda Abell was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Health Practice.

Richmond

Caroline Hutchinson was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Food + Beverage Practice.

Jenna Green was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Corporate Practice.

Chicago

Laura Campbell, R.D., was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Haley Hickman, M.S., R.D., was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

About Padilla

Padilla is an independently operated, globally resourced public relations and communication company with offices across the United States. The agency builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds, and the research authorities at SMS Research Advisors. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Cargill Animal Nutrition, Hass Avocado Board, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, Sanofi Pasteur, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is an AVENIR GLOBAL company and is a founding member of the Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 132 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Connect with purpose at PadillaCo.com.

Media contact: Julie Behr, 612.455.1706, [email protected]

Media contact: Julie Behr, 612.455.1706, [email protected]

NEW YORK (Aug. 23, 2018) – Ribera del Duero and Rueda, two of the leading wine regions in Spain, have selected Padilla as its agency of record in the U.S. Padilla has led the regions’ U.S. trade marketing program since 2016. Expansion of that work will include consumer media relations, influencer marketing, digital advertising, website design and database management.

The Ribera del Duero region is known worldwide for its Tempranillo grapes and red wines, and Rueda for its Verdejo grapes and white wines. Both neighboring regions are highly regarded for producing some of the finest Spanish wines today.

Padilla’s trade marketing program included designing and executing multi-prong marketing partnerships across the U.S. (distributor, integrated retail chains and national on-premise accounts). All report category sales growth from 20 to 100 percent.

“We are thrilled to be named AOR for these two awe-inspiring Spanish wine regions,” said Matt Kucharski, Padilla president, “and to build even greater awareness of and loyalty to their brands in the North American market.”

About Padilla

Padilla is an independently operated, globally resourced public relations and communication company with offices across the United States. The agency builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds, and the research authorities at SMS Research Advisors. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Cargill Animal Nutrition, Hass Avocado Board, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, Sanofi Pasteur, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is an AVENIR GLOBAL company and is a founding member of the Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 132 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Connect with purpose at PadillaCo.com.

About D.O. Ribera del Duero

Located roughly two hours northwest of Madrid, D.O. Ribera del Duero provides a benchmark for quality in the Spanish wine category throughout the world. With an extreme climate perfectly suited for quality grape-growing and ripening, Ribera del Duero wines represent the pinnacle of Spanish winemaking and the ultimate expression of Spain’s most noble red grape: Tempranillo. The region’s frigid winters and a rocky, rigid terrain produce Tempranillo grapes that develop a character all their own, resulting in full-bodied, rugged wines with a multitude of pairing options.

About D.O. Rueda

D.O. Rueda was founded in 1980, the first D.O. in Castilla y Leon and is ranked as the top white wine region in the Spanish market, according to Nielsen. Situated on a high plateau with a continental climate, Rueda has long cold winters, short springs and hot summers, perfect for the Verdejo grape, the dominant varietal in the region. High elevations and gravelly stone soils allow the Verdejo to ripen by mid-September and develop deep aromas and flavors resulting in dry, fresh wines that are food-friendly and accessible.

Montreal-based holding and management company of PR and communication firms now a key player in the U.S.

AVENIR GLOBAL media contact: Christelle Lenoir [email protected] 438-464-2663;
Padilla media contact: Julie Behr [email protected] 612-455-1706

MONTREAL and MINNEAPOLIS, MN., August 1, 2018 – AVENIR GLOBAL, a Montreal-based holding and management company of public relations and communication firms, today announced that it has acquired U.S.-based Padilla.

This is a pursued U.S. expansion for AVENIR GLOBAL, having already marked its presence with the opening of U.S. operations for healthcare specialists AXON Communications in the Hudson Valley in 2010 and the acquisition of the integrated data-driven communications agency SHIFT Communications in 2016.

“We are delighted to welcome Padilla to the AVENIR GLOBAL family,” said Jean-Pierre Vasseur, president and CEO of AVENIR GLOBAL. “Padilla’s reputation and footprint, not to mention its specialized industry expertise and client roster, solidify our current operations and, when added to our SHIFT and AXON brands, position us as a key player in the U.S. marketplace. AVENIR GLOBAL brands’ clients can now rely on 330 experts in 8 cities across the United States [Boston; Richmond, VA; Washington D.C; New York; Chicago; Minneapolis; Austin; and San Francisco] to connect them to the people who matter most, with the right message, at the right time.”

Founded in 1961, Padilla has annual revenue of US$40 million and 210 employees in six offices across the United States. Padilla offers public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations, crisis management and brand strategy services with specialized expertise in Food and Beverage, Agribusiness, Health, Manufacturing, Technology, and Consumer Products and Services. Padilla includes brand consultancy Joe Smith, FoodMinds food and nutrition affairs and SMS Research Advisors.

Coinciding with the purchase by AVENIR GLOBAL, Padilla will conclude a planned leadership transition from Lynn Casey, its chair and CEO, to Matt Kucharski, who will lead Padilla as its president. Casey will become chair, and both Kucharski and Casey will report to AVENIR GLOBAL president and CEO Vasseur.

“Joining AVENIR GLOBAL was a perfect fit for Padilla,” said Casey. “Both companies share a great deal in common in terms of history, values and management philosophy, along with complementary vertical expertise. We now have access to a diverse set of capabilities and resources that will propel our client offering and growth, along with exciting new opportunities for our next-generation leadership and all Padilla employees.”

AVENIR GLOBAL’s long-term growth strategy is focused on diversifying its geographic reach, deepening its talent pool and expanding its service offering. With today’s announcement, AVENIR GLOBAL solidifies its global leadership position in the industry, moving from 26^th to 22^nd in worldwide PR agency ranking.

Bank of Montreal provided the cross border acquisition financing for the transaction. Rick Gould, managing partner, Gould+Partners facilitated the introduction of the parties.

About AVENIR GLOBAL

AVENIR GLOBAL is a Montreal-based holding and management company with an active operations mindset and a hands-on approach to all its investments. With 760 staff and offices in 21 locations across Canada, the U.S. and in Europe, it is the 22^nd most important public relations firm in the world. In Canada, AVENIR GLOBAL owns NATIONAL Public Relations, the country’s leading public relations firm, servicing clients across a wide range of sectors, and NATIONAL Equicom, the industry’s foremost investor relations and financial services practice. In the United States, AVENIR GLOBAL owns SHIFT Communications, a data-driven integrated communications agency; and the public relations and communication company Padilla, which includes the brand consultancy Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS Research Advisors. The AVENIR GLOBAL network also includes healthcare specialists AXON Communications, with offices in Toronto, the U.S, the U.K. and Europe and Madano, a strategic communications consultancy based in London.

AVENIR GLOBAL is owned by RES PUBLICA Consulting Group.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communication company comprised of 210 employees. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS Research Advisors. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Cargill Animal Nutrition, Hass Avocado Board, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, Sanofi Pasteur, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, and the Virginia Lottery. Padilla is an AVENIR GLOBAL company.

MINNEAPOLIS (June 28, 2018) – Dan Reilly, a seasoned researcher with expertise in quantitative and qualitative methodologies, has been promoted to senior vice president and leader of SMS Research Advisors, a division of Padilla.

Founded in 1989, SMS Research Advisors is a market research and consulting firm that partners with clients to design studies that produce insights, leading to real strategic solutions that drive tactical plans. The firm was acquired by Padilla in 2013.

With more than 20 years of market research experience, Reilly has worked in multiple industries including consumer, retail, manufacturing, financial and health care. He has been with SMS for the past five years, and succeeds SMS founder Jeri Meola, who recently departed the firm to pursue a client-side opportunity.

Reilly is responsible for the growth and profitability of SMS Research Advisors through prospecting, business development and leadership of the agency’s research expertise. He oversees primary research that serves clients for SMS, Padilla, and its Joe Smith brand consultancy and FoodMinds food and nutrition division.

“Dan is the right person to lead the next chapter of SMS Research Advisors. He’s been instrumental in developing the research strategies and processes we need to execute our research projects with high quality and efficiency,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “In addition, he has provided counsel on research methodologies and approaches to client teams that ensures our programs are grounded in fact-based insights.”

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communication company comprised of 210 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Haas Avocado Board, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, Sanofi Pasteur, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of the Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (June 7, 2018) – Padilla has been recognized with a Silver Anvil Award and three Silver Anvil Awards of Excellence given by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

The agency was recognized for its excellence in public relations and communication in the following categories:

2018 Silver Anvil Winners

Padilla with Wilsonart

Helping Designers See the Forests Behind the Wood

• Events and Observances > Seven Or Fewer Days > Consumer Products

2018 Silver Anvil Awards of Excellence

Padilla with Cargill Animal Nutrition

Educating Horse Owners on Topline Health

• Content Marketing > Business Products
• Integrated Communications > Business To Business
• Marketing > Business To Business > Products

About Silver Anvil Award

Since its inception in 1944, the annual Silver Anvil Award is the oldest awards competition for excellence in public relations and communication. The iconic Silver Anvil Award symbolizes the breadth of talent among industry practitioners while recognizing outstanding individual professional achievement.  Entries are judged on their research, planning, execution and evaluation, while also considering factors such as creativity, ethics and budget.

For more information on the Silver Anvil Awards, please visit the event website.

View the complete list of 2018 PRSA Silver Anvil Winners at PRSA.org.

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Media contact: [email protected]

RICHMOND, Va. (May 24, 2018) – Padilla earned a total of 12 awards – including a Best in Show Award – at the 71^st Annual Virginia PR Awards, sponsored by the Richmond Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA Richmond).

The agency won the Capital Best in Show Award, which recognizes the most effective public relations tactics, for its paid social media strategy with the Virginia Lottery and its brand ambassador, Game Guy. This campaign also earned the Award of Excellence for Paid Social Media.

In addition, Padilla won Awards of Excellence for its work with the Virginia Lottery in the Organic Social Media, Regional Media Relations and Web Broadcasts categories.

With Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU (CHoR), Padilla earned two Awards of Excellence in the Websites and Press Conferences categories.

The agency was also recognized with four Awards of Merit for its work with CHoR in Online Videos, Regional Media Relations, Marketing Consumer Products and Services and Extended Events and Observances.

Each year, PRSA Richmond recognizes outstanding public relations professionals and their work at the Virginia Public Relations Awards. Over its 71-year history, the chapter’s awards program has recognized the most creative and effective communication strategies and tactics happening across Virginia.

The Commonwealth Awards recognize exceptional public relations programs or campaigns, and the Capital Awards recognize outstanding public relations tactics that were implemented as part of a larger public relations program or campaign. Awards of Merit also are given in both categories.

A complete list of 2018 winners can be found at PRSARichmond.org.

Earlier this year, Padilla was also recognized by the Minnesota chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (Minnesota PRSA) with six awards at the 40^th Annual Classics Awards.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (May 1, 2018) – Padilla has been recognized by The Holmes Report as the 2018 North America Gold SABRE Award Winner – Business-To-Business Marketing – for Living Acres: Preserving Monarch Butterflies.

To learn more about the campaign, visit PadillaCo.com for the video case study. View the complete list of 2018 North America SABRE winners at HolmesReport.com.

The 2018 North America SABRE Awards winners were selected from more than 2,000 entries in this year’s competition, which recognizes superior achievement in branding, reputation and engagement. The campaigns were evaluated by a jury of industry leaders.

The winners were announced at the awards ceremony on May 1 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (April 20, 2018) – The Minnesota chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (Minnesota PRSA) awarded Padilla with six awards at the 40th annual Classics Awards.

Padilla was recognized for its client work in the following categories:

Institutional Programs, Agency/Organization with > 25 Employees
Engaging Young Journalists to Advance Health Equity
Padilla with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota

Public Services
Engaging Young Journalists to Advance Health Equity
Padilla with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota

International/Multicultural Public Relations
Engaging Young Journalists to Advance Health Equity
Padilla with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota

Integrated Programs, B2B Services
Living Acres: Preserving Monarch Butterflies
Padilla with BASF

Integrated Programs, Government / Nonprofit
Winning the Awareness Battle for Soldier Protection
Padilla with 3M

Integrated Programs, Health Care
Reverse It Prediabetes Awareness Campaign
Padilla with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota

The 2018 Minnesota PRSA Classics Awards celebrate cutting-edge creativity and innovative thinking in the public relations industry throughout the past year. Top campaigns featured extraordinary talent and craft by driving engagement among diverse audiences through digital, content marketing, influencer outreach, experiential events and much more.

View the complete list of 2018 Classics Awards winners at MinnesotaPRSA.org.

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Media contact: [email protected]

Minneapolis (March 27, 2018) – Produce for Better Health Foundation (PBH), a nonprofit organization whose mission is to increase Americans’ daily consumption of fruits and vegetables for better health, has selected Padilla, and its FoodMinds division, as its agency of record. The work will include brand positioning, stakeholder and consumer research, digital ecosystem strategy and activation, industry outreach and consumer influencer engagement.

“More than ever, people are interested in how their food decisions contribute to an overall active and healthful lifestyle. Yet, we know there are barriers affecting Americans’ produce consumption,” said Dennis Christou, PBH board of trustees chair and vice president of marketing for Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A. Inc. “It’s time to transform how the industry and critical lifestyle influencers work together to give consumers new reasons to enjoy more fruit and vegetables.”

“PBH is the only national organization dedicated to increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables, in all forms, and we’re excited to partner with Padilla and FoodMinds to energize our efforts to reach consumers and their influencers,” said Wendy Reinhardt Kapsak, PBH president and CEO. “The team’s brand positioning, creative and digital expertise, as well as their influencer and stakeholder relationships, will help refresh our approach, so we can reach our goal of doubling Americans’ produce consumption.”

As the leading group promoting produce in all forms – fresh, frozen, canned or packaged, dried and 100 percent juice – PBH is uniquely positioned to engage diverse value chain stakeholders, consumer influencers and thought leaders in science-based, integrated marketing communication efforts to boost produce intake.

“There is no doubt that fruits and vegetables, in all forms, support healthy lifestyles. But most people still only eat about half the recommended daily produce for better health,” said Susan Pitman, Padilla executive vice president and FoodMinds founder. “We are incredibly honored to support the PBH team to evolve its vision for the future and build on its success to take the organization to the next level. The Padilla and FoodMinds team is energized and ready to work with PBH on its important initiatives.”

The agency’s work with PBH will be served by Padilla and FoodMinds’ Chicago, Minneapolis, New York, Richmond, San Francisco and Washington D.C. offices.

About the Produce for Better Health Foundation
Produce for Better Health Foundation (PBH), a nonprofit 501(c)(3), is the only national organization dedicated to increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables, in all forms (fresh, frozen, canned, dried and 100% juice).

Since 1991, PBH has invested decades into developing trended insights on attitudes toward all forms of fruit and vegetable consumption, in addition to campaigns and partnerships with government, food industry stakeholders, health professionals and other thought leaders to collaborate, facilitate and advocate for increased intake. Campaigns include first, the 5-A-Day program, and now, the Fruits & Veggies—More Matters public health initiative. Fruits & Veggies—More Matters is the nation’s largest public-private, fruit and vegetable nutrition education initiative. To learn more, visit PBHFoundation.org and FruitsandVeggiesMoreMatters.org. Follow Fruits & Veggies—More Matters on Facebook or Twitter.

PBH also chairs the National Fruit & Vegetable Alliance (NFVA), consisting of government agencies, nonprofit organizations and industries working collaboratively to increase nationwide access and demand for fruit and vegetables in all forms for improved public health. To learn more, visit NFVA.org.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communication company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hass Avocado Board, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, Sanofi Pasteur, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of the Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (February 20, 2018) – Padilla today announced employee promotions across several of its industry and functional groups. These 17 individuals were recognized for their contributions at Padilla; FoodMinds, a division of Padilla; and Joe Smith, the brand consultancy of Padilla.

Chicago

Allison Mikita, M.S., was promoted from senior director to vice president in FoodMinds, a division of Padilla. She will assume the role of director of the FoodMinds’ Global ExpertBench™, a network of senior nutrition and communication experts.

Lindsay MacNab, M.S., R.D., was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

New York

Michelle Amoroso was promoted from director to senior director in Padilla’s Consumer Practice.

Joanne Tehrani, M.P.H., R.D., was promoted from manager to director of nutrition communication in Padilla’s Food + Beverage Practice.

Julie LePere was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor in Padilla’s Food + Beverage Practice.

Laura Schultz was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Consumer Practice.

San Francisco

Amari Thomsen, M.S., R.D., L.D.N., was promoted from director to senior director in FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Jessica Hall was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Richmond

Kathryn Canning was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor in Padilla’s Corporate Communication Team.

Lauren Llewellyn was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor in Padilla’s Health Practice.

Katie McCombie was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Corporate Communication Team.

Alison Skahan was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Health Practice.

Monica Janelli was promoted from graphic design associate to graphic designer in Joe Smith, the brand consultancy of Padilla.

Luke Saunders was promoted from brand strategist to brand experience manager in Joe Smith, the brand consultancy of Padilla.

Minneapolis

Len Pollard was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Manufacturing Practice.

Dana Bossen was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Manufacturing Practice.

Kenny Devine was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Minnesota Team.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communication company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of the Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

NEW YORK (Jan. 30, 2018) – Death Wish Coffee, a high-caffeine coffee brand based in upstate New York, has selected Padilla to create and execute a marketing communications program to drive its expansion into metro and western New York as well as New England and California.

In 2012, Death Wish Coffee Co. was born in a small coffee shop in Saratoga Springs, NY. In 2015, the company, known for brewing the ‘World’s Strongest Coffee,’ won Intuit’s Small Business Big Game competition resulting in a 30-second Super Bowl ad. Most recently, Mike Brown, Death Wish Coffee founder and owner, was named EY’s 2017 Entrepreneur of the Year for Emerging Business in New York.

“Death Wish Coffee is a distinctive and dynamic brand to add to our robust Food and Beverage portfolio,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “Padilla’s partnership with Death Wish Coffee will help build and grow the company’s national reach, connecting them to critical audiences looking to experience their seriously strong coffee.”

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of the Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

About Death Wish Coffee
Death Wish Coffee produces the World’s Strongest Coffee using a combination of the strongest Robusta and Arabica beans and a tailor-made process to ensure perfect roasting. Founded in Saratoga Springs, NY, in 2012 by Mike Brown, Death Wish is committed to sustainability in all its products and uses USDA-approved processes to produce high-quality organic and fair-trade beans. Today, thousands of people trust Death Wish Coffee to wake them up and keep them going every day.

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Media contact: [email protected]

Minneapolis, MN (Jan. 29, 2018) – The National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) recognized Padilla with nine awards at the Region III Best of NAMA award ceremony. Among the honors Padilla received were Best of Show in Public Relations and Best of Show in Specialty for its Cargill Animal Nutrition campaign – Educating Horse Owners on Topline Health.

More information about Educating Horse Owners on Topline Health, including the video case study, can be found at PadillaCo.com

NAMA is the agriculture industry’s largest professional development organization and awards are highly coveted by clients and agencies alike. It was a banner year for the Padilla team at NAMA, as the agency won in a variety of categories for work with BASF and Cargill Animal Nutrition.

Padilla received awards from NAMA for its client work in the following categories:

Public Relations (Ag Audience)

• Media Relations – Educating Horse Owners on Topline Health

           Padilla with Cargill Animal Nutrition

• Merit Award: Media Relations – Challenging Media to See More Monarchs

           Padilla with BASF

• News or Feature Article: Trade Media – Equine Topline: Nutrition at the Core – White Paper

           Padilla with Cargill Animal Nutrition

Digital (Ag Audience)

• Merit Award: Interactive Marketing Tools – Grow Smart Podcast: Real Ag Storytelling in the Digital Age

           Padilla with BASF

Specialty Audiences

• Specialty Advertising Campaign – Educating Horse Owners on Topline Health

           Padilla with Cargill Animal Nutrition

• Specialty PR Campaign – Educating Horse Owners on Topline Health

           Padilla with Cargill Animal Nutrition

• Specialty Campaign Elements – Single or Series – Educating Horse Owners on Topline Health

           Padilla with Cargill Animal Nutrition

View the complete list of the 2017 Region III Best of NAMA award winners at NAMA.org.

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Media Contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (Jan. 24, 2018) – Padilla NEXTerns, the agency’s summer internship program, offers college students and recent graduates paid, full-time opportunities in account service, brand, public relations and creative tracks.

As a Padilla NEXTern, you don’t just gain hands-on experience working with some of the leading minds in our industry, you will help build the framework for the future of our agency. We’re not looking for someone to just fit in. We’re looking for someone who’s interested in creating what’s next.

Becoming a Padilla NEXTern has its benefits:

• Hands-on experience and competitive pay
• Cross-office training and offsite opportunities
• Vibrant social culture
• Good people doing good work for good people

Click here for the complete list of summer 2018 NEXTern opportunities within Padilla and its FoodMinds (nutrition), Joe Smith (brand) and SMS (research) divisions. Available in Minneapolis (headquarters), Richmond, Chicago, New York City and Washington, D.C., applications are being accepted through February 17, 2018. The summer internship program begins June 4 and ends August 17.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

NEW YORK (Jan. 18, 2018) – With more than 15 years of agency experience in health care communication, Sarah Fox has joined Padilla as vice president in the agency’s Health Practice. Based in New York, she joins Fred Lake, senior vice president and Health Practice lead, and Peter Vigliarolo, seasoned public relations practitioner and vice president in the Health Practice. They will expand Padilla’s strategic client partnerships across the health care ecosystem – from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, device companies and health technology platforms, to hospital systems and health networks.

Fox has worked with numerous pharmaceutical and biotech companies across the life cycle of brands and R&D, including Daiichi Sankyo, GSK, Merck, Sanofi Pasteur, UCB, among others. She has led public service campaigns, public-private partnerships, corporate thought leadership initiatives, health policy communication, targeted consumer and health care provider education programming, and regulatory and data communication. Her experience spans several disease categories, including vaccines, neurology, ophthalmology, allergies, sleep disorders, radiology, immunology, hypertension and anesthesiology. Her previous agency experience includes Cooney/Waters Group and H+K Strategies.

“Health continues to be a growth area for Padilla,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “Bringing Sarah on board to work with our existing health experts strengthens our efforts in this competitive space.”

“I look forward to working with clients across the health care landscape to create and execute integrated communication programs reaching their target audiences with purposeful content that will help shift mindsets and change behaviors,” Fox said.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

PR Agency’s Technoliday Box Encourages Phone-Free Gatherings for the Holidays

MINNEAPOLIS (Dec. 12, 2017) – In a season traditionally associated with chestnuts roasting on an open fire and tree trimming, the holidays now include Amazon Alexa gift purchases and Pandora holiday playlists.

How can families help keep a healthy balance with technology during holiday get-togethers? Padilla, a Minneapolis-based PR agency, is answering that question this season with the Technoliday Box. The Box is designed to encourage families and friends to create temporary phone-free zones and make more meaningful connections with those who matter most this time of year.

“Padilla typically creates a signature holiday greeting for clients and friends of the firm,” said Heath Rudduck, its chief creative officer. “When we conceived the Technoliday idea, we loved the concept so much, we decided to blow it out into a more complete story. It’s a fun reminder that disconnecting, even for a few moments, can give us all a chance to reconnect with each other. And that’s especially important during the holidays.”

Just how is technology affecting Americans this holiday season? According to an ORC International survey commissioned by Padilla, people who are worried about the lack of balance with technology in their lives are most concerned about using technology around family (39 percent). Conversely, 61 percent of those achieving balance say they are significantly more likely to limit technology with family or close friends.

When asked how individuals cope with the pervasiveness of technology in their lives, the top response was focusing on tasks that only require limited or no technology, such as going for a walk or reading a book (49 percent).

To learn more about the Technoliday Box, visit Technoliday.com.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The WorldCom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

About the ORC International survey

Padilla commissioned ORC International to survey 1,024 U.S. adults ages 18 and older November 27-29, 2017 to take a closer look at technology use. All statistical tests were performed at a 5 percent risk level. ORC International is a collaborative and consultative research partner to hundreds of organizations around the globe.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (Dec. 4, 2017) – Padilla has been named among the Chief Marketer 200 (CM200) in the B2B Demand Gen Agency category. The CM200 is the first and only comprehensive list of the best non-advertising agencies, and features agencies spanning 11 categories, including Experiential, Sports & Entertainment, Promotion and Retail/Shopper, among others.

Chief Marketer’s editors accepted submissions from across the country for the CM200 earlier this fall. Winners were selected based on several criteria including: insightful client testimonials; outstanding case study submissions; high caliber, consistent work across programs and clients; innovative and creative executions; and bold and inspiring concepts and ideas that are moving the industry forward. The 200 agencies selected for this year’s inaugural program are thought leaders in their craft and representative of the best of the marketing industry.

Early in 2017, Padilla was named a B2B TOP Shop – Chief Marketer’s list of Top 50 B2B marketing agencies.

About Chief Marketer

Chief Marketer, with a readership of more than 150,000, provides marketers and CMOs with content, ideas, recognition and events that help them make smarter decisions with their marketing budgets. It offers data-driven industry intelligence, actionable insights, inspiring case studies and the latest technology trends so marketers can improve their campaigns and increase ROI.

Learn more about the CM200 and view the complete list at Chief Marketer 200.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (Nov. 30, 2017) –  Padilla announced today that Mike Garrison has joined the agency as vice president of Insights and Strategy. He will work closely with SMS Research Advisors, Padilla’s in-house market research and consulting firm. Together, Garrison and the SMS team will turn great research into compelling understanding of consumer behaviors.

“A robust insights and strategy capability is essential to a number of important initiatives at Padilla,” said Padilla CEO Lynn Casey. “Mike’s expertise strengthens our ability to provide research-based strategic counsel to our clients and guide them to truly connecting with those who matter most to their success.”

Garrison brings a long history of exploring, questioning and translating consumer behaviors to Padilla. Prior to joining the agency, he served as vice president and lead consumer strategist for Iconoculture, a business management consultancy based in Minneapolis. Garrison also served as senior manager of brand research and consumer insights for Nickelodeon, managing all aspects of primary research projects.

“I’ve always been passionate and inquisitive about what drives consumer behavior,” Garrison said. “By joining Padilla’s research team, I’m confident we can help inspire and empower the agency’s clients to deliver more meaningful experiences for their customers.”

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands and reputations worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The WorldCom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (Nov. 28, 2017) – Heath Rudduck, Padilla chief creative officer, has been named to The Holmes Report’s Innovator 25 Americas list for 2017. In its fifth year, the list includes innovators from the United States, Latin America and Canada.

“This year’s innovators made the cut because they’re producing work that points to the future of marketing and communications. Innovation is evolving and this list reflects the diversity inherent in curating a list like this one,” according to The Holmes Report. “Champions for creativity, pay equity, storytelling and business analytics are among those featured on the list, all innovators in different – but meaningful – ways.”

Rudduck assumed the chief creative officer mantle at Padilla in 2014, bringing to the agency a wealth of management, creative and digital experience, having worked at a variety of national advertising and digital agencies across the United States and his native Australia.

More information about Rudduck and the Innovator 25 Americas is available here.

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Media contact: [email protected]

New Data Shows Career Stage More Effective Indicator of Engagement Than
Employee Age Alone

MINNEAPOLIS (November 8, 2017) – Employers often view employee engagement through a generational lens, but new research indicates the need to enlarge their field of vision.

The study, conducted by SMS Research Advisors and commissioned by Padilla, one of the top 10 independent public relations and communications firms in the U.S., found that two in five employees are completely disengaged from their employer. What’s more, that disengagement cuts across generations as well as job title.

“Earning and maintaining employee engagement affects all aspects of business success, yet it is often overlooked by employers as a ‘nice to have,’” said Julie McCracken, senior director in Padilla’s Employee Engagement group. “We’ve known for some time that a one-size-fits-all approach to forging stronger connections doesn’t work. The Engage by Stage research findings also tell us that improving engagement levels is not as simple as tailoring approaches by generation or even by decade.”

The research offers organizations insight into the various stages that employees pass through during their career and the engagement preferences and motivators at each stage. The research also outlines key, actionable takeaways to drive engagement across the organization and retain and inspire talent.

“We realized a lot of research had been conducted on generational differences and preferences in the workplace, but until now, there has not been much insight into how career stage affects employee engagement,” said Dan Reilly, vice president of client services, SMS Research Advisors, a division of Padilla. “We thought it was time to investigate whether there was more to the story. And, if so, to help organizations create a more rounded approach to building an engaged workforce.”

Engage by Stage Research Results

SMS Research Advisors surveyed 1,500 people in the workforce of varying ages, position/level and general mix of industry in August 2017.

For all career stages, satisfaction with the alignment between personal and company values is the key driver to engagement. Regardless of an employee’s age or career stage, they want and need to understand the organization’s purpose, mission and values. This goes beyond communications and into forming a unique culture that brings an organization’s value proposition to life.

Employees in different career stages also share similarities in what was ranked as the top drivers of employee engagement. With the highest average importance rating of 8.6/10, treating all employees fairly and with respect, regardless of position or level is a top company value at all career stages. Employee reward programs are the engagement method across all stages with the largest average gap in what employers currently offer (22.5 percent) versus what employees want (48 percent).

Four Key Career Stages

The various stages come into focus when examining what both motivates and challenges employees throughout their career. Understanding employees’ needs and preferences at each career stage helps identify opportunities to increase engagement across organizations. Padilla defines four key career stages as:

• Newbie (3 years or less at the company): These employees are least invested in company culture and the most transient, viewing the risk of switching jobs to be low. The top motivator for 59 percent of those in the newbie career stage is learning new skills or gaining new knowledge. They’re eager to learn through experience over formalized training programs. Employees in the newbie stage are challenged by not meeting personal goals or expectations and prefer managers that will offer guidance and feedback.

• Sophomore (4-7 years at the company): These employees are learning in the moment and focused on proving themselves, but 29 percent also fear getting stuck or not feeling challenged enough. At this career stage, employees pay more attention to ethics, transparency and honest communications, expect more frequent communications from supervisors and place the highest value on work-life balance.

For all career stages, financial incentives in the form of employee rewards are preferred over recognition. For both newbies and sophomores, tuition loan repayment assistance and health and wellness programs are also in high demand.

• Tenured (8-10 years at the company): The top motivator for 58 percent of employees in the tenured stage is to contribute to the company’s overall goals. They focus more on what success looks like, are motivated by public recognition and promotion and seek ownership over specific projects or teams. The biggest challenge for the tenured stage is combatting stagnation and feeling “stuck.” It’s important for them to have open, direct conversations with their managers to help look for opportunities to further their career and find ways to overcome any barriers.

• Sage (11 years or more at the company): With 76 percent of employees in the sage stage considering themselves loyal to their organization, they are the most loyal and engaged career stage overall and have one of the highest Net Promoter Scores. They typically fill more senior or leadership positions, which afford them leverage to dictate the ways they are engaged. They are less focused on building social relationships or credibility, as they have already established this, and are apprehensive about “life after work.” Legacy building is a pride-based motivation and is more often manifested in projects over people. Sage employees place the most emphasis on a company’s value and culture and should be increasingly engaged with projects that build a piece of the organization’s future.

“Overall, to ensure all employees are and remain engaged, organizations must have a compelling vision and mission that is shared, embraced and brought to life in the workplace,” McCracken said. “A comprehensive engagement platform is essential and will be more approachable if it emphasizes universal truths and then builds out to meet the needs of specific employee groups. However, it doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a long-term commitment and strategic undertaking that needs leadership backing and support.”

To learn more about the Engage by Stage research findings and Padilla’s employee engagement and SMS research capabilities, visit PadillaCo.com.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

About SMS Research Advisors

As the independent market research firm of Padilla, SMS has helped clients make well-informed, strategic decisions about their organization and market for over 25 years. SMS offers full-suite research capabilities in quantitative and qualitative methodologies across a number of different industries, from manufacturing to health care to technology. SMS designs and conducts research that produces more than just data—it leads to real strategic solutions and drives tactical planning. SMS accomplishes this through a collaborative approach that leverages research expertise with clients’ industry and business experiences to create a highly actionable and effective research solution.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (October 31, 2017) – For the fourth consecutive year, Padilla has recognized employees who have made outstanding contributions to the agency with the Living Our Purpose Awards. Winners were selected in one of three categories – Client, Culture and Community. Each winner received an award of appreciation and a cash stipend.

“The Living Our Purpose Award gives Padilla the opportunity to recognize employee-owners who have gone above and beyond their normal duties for our clients, our agency or the community,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “Recipients must consistently demonstrate an owner’s mentality and embody the values of Padilla’s workplace culture.”

2017 Living Our Purpose Award Winners:

Client – Danielle Engholm and Michelle Amoroso

A senior director in Padilla’s Manufacturing Practice in Minneapolis, Danielle Engholm helps technology and manufacturing companies, such as Rockwell Automation, communicate complicated technologies to key audiences. Colleagues recognized Danielle for her impeccable ability to consistently bring new ideas and fresh thinking to her client engagements.

Michelle Amoroso, a director in Padilla’s New York office, works across the agency’s Consumer and Food + Beverage Practices. Known for her high-quality work, Michelle was recognized with numerous national and regional awards in 2017 for work with Niagara Conservation and the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council.

Culture – Tina Charpentier

Tina Charpentier is a senior vice president and leader of the agency’s Agriculture + Environmental Sciences Practice. Along with managing some of Padilla’s largest clients for the past several years, Tina was recognized for her strong leadership skills and mentoring she provides to her team. She works from Padilla’s Minneapolis office.

Community –  Laura Campbell

Laura Campbell, is an account executive for FoodMinds, a division of Padilla, and works from the agency’s Chicago office. She was recognized for her volunteer efforts with Metro Achievement Center for Girls, where she serves as a tutor. Metro is a supplementary after-school program that serves fourth through 12^th grade students from low-income families in the city of Chicago. It provides academic enrichment, character education, individual attention and extracurricular activities for students, and parenting skills classes and discussion for the parents.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media Contact: [email protected]

WASHINGTON Oct. 16, 2017 – Padilla has been recognized with five Thoth Awards and two Awards of Excellence given by the National Capital Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA-NCC).

The agency was recognized for its excellence in public relations and tactics in the following categories:

2017 Thoth Awards

Integrated Media Relations – Budget of $25,000 or More

The Virginia Lottery and Padilla

Honoring Virginia’s Teachers, One Thank-You Note at a Time

Community Relations

The Virginia Lottery and Padilla

Honoring Virginia’s Teachers, One Thank-You Note at a Time

Direct Mail/Direct Response

The Virginia Lottery and Padilla

Honoring Virginia’s Teachers, One Thank-You Note at a Time

Media Relations: Print Campaign

Virginia529 College Savings Plans and Padilla

ABLEnow Launches with National Recognition

Websites

Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma with Padilla

From Obsolete to Cutting Edge: Reinvigorating Prosciutto di Parma’s Web Presence

2017 Thoth Awards of Excellence

Marketing Consumer Products and Services

Padilla for the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council and Padilla

Goodness Frozen: Warming Consumer Appetites to Frozen Blueberries

Public Service

Virginia529 College Savings Plan and Padilla

ABLEnow Launches with National Recognition

About Thoth Awards

Each year, PRSA-NCC awards outstanding public relations in the national capital area with the prestigious Thoth Awards. The awards are named after Thoth, an Egyptian god of wisdom who was a mediator and scribe and credited as the inventor of communications and writing. In the spirit of Thoth, PRSA-NCC honors area PR professionals for their wisdom and contributions to the profession. Awards are given for the best PR campaigns and top accomplishments in PR tactics.

View the complete list of 2017 PRSA-NCC Thoth Award Winners at PRSA-NCC.org.

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Media contact: [email protected]

WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 6, 2017) – Padilla, a top 10 independent public relations and communications company – and its food and nutrition communications and consulting division, FoodMinds – have combined their Washington, D.C. offices into one location in the northwest section of the District. The new office is located at 1100 G Street NW, Suite 805.

Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Padilla also has offices in New York, Los Angeles and Richmond, Virginia. FoodMinds has additional locations in Chicago and San Francisco.

“The metro Washington, D.C. area had the most geographic overlap between Padilla and FoodMinds staff. Padilla had an Alexandria office, and FoodMinds was already in D.C. It made sense to combine into one location in our nation’s capital,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “There already is tremendous collaboration between FoodMinds and Padilla’s Food + Beverage Practice. Having all our D.C. employees under one roof positions us for greater growth in the region and nationally.”

The new D.C. location has 12 employees. In total, Padilla has approximately 240 employee-owners, with 35 of them being with FoodMinds (including 20 registered dietitians).

Along with expertise in food, beverage and nutrition, the Padilla and FoodMinds D.C. team has experience in a variety of other categories including consumer products and services, technology, media relations and crisis communications.

“FoodMinds joined forces with Padilla two years ago to leverage Padilla’s knowledge and resources in creative, digital, research, branding and critical issues management,” said Sue Pitman, MA, RD, a FoodMinds founder and D.C. office lead. “Having a centralized location fosters collaboration across our agency and gives us a greater overall presence in D.C.”

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

Expertise in Strategic Counsel, Enterprise Risk Management and Public Affairs Expands Padilla’s Corporate Reputation and Communication Capabilities

MINNEAPOLIS (September 26, 2017) – Padilla announced today that John Himle, founder and CEO of Himle Rapp & Company, Inc., now Rapp Strategies, is joining the agency as executive vice president and senior counsel in early October. Himle is a seasoned public relations practitioner with more than 35 years of experience in strategic counsel, public affairs, enterprise risk management, corporate reputation and crisis management. Himle’s expertise spans several sectors including transportation, financial services, health care, regulated industries, agribusiness, energy and environmental.

“With his experience in corporate strategy, enterprise risk management and public affairs, John will enhance Padilla’s Corporate Practice, which has expertise in investor relations, employee engagement, and crisis and critical issues management,” said Padilla CEO Lynn Casey. “We’re excited to add his knowledge to Padilla’s robust group of talented corporate communications and crisis management professionals who help clients build, grow and protect their brands and reputations.”

First elected in 1980, Himle served five terms as a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives and held leadership positions including assistant majority leader, floor leader and assistant minority leader. Among his legislative works, Himle was chief author of the legislation that was required to build the Mall of America. Himle also served eight years as a commissioner on the Metropolitan Airports Commission, where he was responsible for overseeing government approvals and construction related to the $3 billion expansion of the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP).

Himle founded his original firm in 1982, which became Himle Horner Inc. in 1989 with the partnership of Tom Horner. The firm was rebranded as Himle Rapp & Company, Inc. in 2011, when Himle and Todd Rapp purchased Horner’s interests. Himle recently sold his ownership in Himle Rapp to Todd Rapp and formed Himle LLC where he will continue to serve some select clients and also manage his outside business interests.

“I’m excited to be working with Padilla, which has a stellar reputation in Minnesota and beyond,” Himle said. “I have known and respected Padilla for years, and the opportunity to work with the agency’s talented teams on significant clients and create new services in the corporate space was very appealing.”

Himle also is a corporate independent director of the Kraus Anderson Companies, past-chair of the Board of Trustees of the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia), and director and past-chairman of the Public Affairs Council in Washington, D.C. Himle has received recognition for his various contributions, and is often asked to speak to business, civic and professional service organizations.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble College, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The WorldCom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (August 17, 2017) – Padilla today announced employee promotions across several of its industry and functional groups. These 14 individuals were recognized for their contributions at Padilla; FoodMinds, a division of Padilla; and Joe Smith, the brand consultancy of Padilla.

New York

Katie Myers was promoted from senior director to vice president in Padilla’s Food + Beverage Practice. With more than 12 years of experience in beverage and consumer marketing, she plays a key leadership and strategic programming role for the agency.

Megan Brown was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Food + Beverage Practice.

Minneapolis

Julie Behr was promoted from marketing specialist to marketing manager in Padilla’s Business Development and Agency Marketing Group.

Claire Woit was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Technology Practice.

Alyse Brunella was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Health Practice.

Kyle Kapustka was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Environmental Sciences Practice.

Chicago

Julie Pappas was promoted from director to senior director in FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Erin Moore Ruddy was promoted from manager to senior manager, strategic insights in FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Richmond

Rosalie Morton was promoted from account supervisor to director in Padilla’s B2B Technology Practice.

Matt Brehony was promoted from brand experience manager to senior brand experience manager in Joe Smith, the brand consultancy of Padilla.

Eliza Winston was promoted from associate brand strategist to brand experience strategist in Joe Smith, the brand consultancy of Padilla.

Nichole Heisler was promoted from associate designer to designer in Padilla’s Creative and Digital Group.

Washington, D.C.

Nikki Parrotte was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor in Padilla’s Consumer Practice.

Laurie Hainley was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The WorldCom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

MINNEAPOLIS (June 23, 2017) – Padilla has been recognized as a 38^th Annual Telly Award Winner, earning two Bronze Tellys for its Niagara Conservation campaign, #WhatTheFlush: Disrupting the Water Conservation Conversation.

Earlier this year, Padilla earned multiple awards for its work with Niagara Conservation, including a Silver Anvil Award presented by the Public Relations Society of America, a Gold SABRE Award and North America In2SABRE Award given by The Holmes Report, and two PRWeek Honorable Mention Awards.

Padilla received Bronze Telly Awards for its work with Niagara Conservation in the following categories:

Branded Content & Entertainment: General-Promotional

Commercials/Marketing: Campaign-Campaign/Business-to-Consumer

More information about the #WhatTheFlush campaign, including the video case story, can be found on PadillaCo.com.

About the Telly Awards

Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards is the premier award honoring outstanding content for TV and Cable, Digital and Streaming and Non-Broadcast distribution. Over 12,000 entries from all 50 states and five continents were judged by top advertising and production professionals that have previously won a Silver Telly. The Bronze Telly Award winners represent the top 25 percent of entrants.

Learn more about the Telly Awards and view the complete list of Telly winners at tellyawards.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

NEW YORK, N.Y. (June 15, 2017) – The New York Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA-NY) recognized Padilla with six 2017 Big Apple Awards, including being named the Best of the Best for its Niagara Conservation campaign, #WhatTheFlush: Disrupting the Water Conservation Conversation.

In addition, Padilla took home a Big Apple Award for its work with Niagara Conservation in the Marketing Consumer Products: Non-Packaged Goods category. Earlier this year, Padilla earned multiple awards for its work with Niagara Conservation, including a Silver Anvil Award presented by the Public Relations Society of America, a Gold SABRE Award and North America In2SABRE Award given by The Holmes Report, and two PRWeek Honorable Mention Awards.

More information about the #WhatTheFlush campaign, including the video case story, can be found on PadillaCo.com.

Additionally, Padilla received Big Apple Awards from PRSA-NY for its client work in the following categories:

Spotlight: Website
From Obsolete to Cutting Edge: Reinvigorating Prosciutto di Parma’s Web Presence
Padilla with Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma

Events & Observances (One to Seven Days): Government, Associations and Non-Profit Organizations
Be The Match Mother’s Day
Padilla with Be The Match

Content Marketing: Government, Associations and Non-Profit Organizations
Goodness Frozen: Warming Consumer Appetites to Frozen Blueberries
Padilla with U.S. Highbush Blueberries Council

Digital Media: Campaigns with Budgets of $150,000 or Less
#SweetPotatoToast: Disrupting 2016 Food Trends
Padilla with North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission

The 2017 Big Apple Awards took place Monday, June 12 at the Grand Hyatt New York. The awards honor public relations campaigns implemented in and around New York City and are considered one of the highest honors in the industry. More than 60 judges reviewed more than 160 entries, selecting close to 70 campaigns and spotlight award entries for recognition.

View the complete list of 2017 Big Apple Award Winners at PRSANY.org.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (June 8, 2017) – Padilla has been recognized with four Silver Anvil Awards and four Silver Anvil Awards of Excellence given by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

The agency was recognized for its excellence in public relations and communication in the following categories:

2017 Silver Anvil Winners

Community Relations/Government
Honoring Virginia’s Teachers, One Thank-You Note At A Time
Padilla with The Virginia Lottery

Events and Observances/More Than Seven Days/Government
Honoring Virginia’s Teachers, One Thank-You Note At A Time
Padilla with The Virginia Lottery

Integrated Communications/Consumer Products/Food + Beverage
Goodness Frozen: Warming Consumer Appetites to Frozen Blueberries
Padilla with U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

Marketing/Consumer Products/Non-Packaged Goods
#WhatTheFlush: Disrupting the Water Conservation Conversation
Padilla with Niagara Conservation

2017 Silver Anvil Awards of Excellence

Integrated Communications/Consumer Products/Non-Packaged Goods
#WhatTheFlush: Disrupting the Water Conservation Conversation
Padilla with Niagara Conservation

Marketing/Consumer Products/Food
Goodness Frozen: Warming Consumer Appetites to Frozen Blueberries
Padilla with U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

Marketing/Business To Business/Professional and/or Financial Services
How to Create a Smart Factory
Padilla with Rockwell Automation

Community Relations/Government
ABLENow Launches With National Recognition
Padilla with Virginia529 College Savings Plans

About Silver Anvil Award

Since its inception in 1944, the annual Silver Anvil Award is the oldest awards competition for excellence in public relations and communication. The iconic Silver Anvil Award symbolizes the breadth of talent among industry practitioners while recognizing outstanding individual professional achievement.  Entries are judged on their research, planning, execution and evaluation, while also considering factors such as creativity, ethics and budget.

For more information on the Silver Anvil Awards, please visit the event website.

View the complete list of 2017 PRSA Silver Anvil Winners at PRSA.org.

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Media contact: [email protected]

RICHMOND, Va. (June 8, 2017) – Padilla announced today that it has acquired INM United, a digital strategy and development firm based in Richmond, Virginia. INM became a part of Padilla’s existing creative and digital team effective June 1.

For nearly two decades, INM United has produced hundreds of digital applications for clients including Fortune 500 companies, startups, universities and nonprofit organizations. The company’s six employees will relocate to Padilla’s Richmond office by the end of June.

“We’re thrilled to have INM United become a part of Padilla. We’ve known INM for years and have partnered with them on work for VCU Health, Chick-Fil-A, Afton Chemical and other clients,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “The company brings a seasoned team of designers, developers and strategists to Padilla’s existing creative design and digital team and strengthens the digital capabilities we’re able to offer our clients.”

INM has extensive expertise in health – a strategic growth area for Padilla – as well as a strong client base, which includes Luckstone, Ledbury, Virginia Wine and Virginia Commonwealth University. The company has previously worked with Allianz Travel Assistance, CarLotz, BFGoodrich, Walmart and others.

“The INM United team is excited to join forces with Padilla,” said Joel Erb, INM United founder. “There is already great synergy between our two organizations, so this felt like a natural next step. Together, it enhances our ability to offer more capabilities to our clients and a larger, more global audience.”

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The WorldCom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (June 1, 2017) – After a competitive national search, Almond Board of California has selected Padilla, with its FoodMinds division, to lead its industry communications program.

California almond growers produce 80 percent of the world’s almond supply. The Almond Board’s industry communications program is aimed at reaching the farmers, processors and allied industry members who help meet the significant and growing global demand for almonds. Key initiatives are focused on advancing production and processing practices for continuous improvement in the industry.

The Almond Board has worked with FoodMinds – an award-winning food and nutrition communications and consulting company that is part of the Food + Beverage division of Padilla – for several years. Work will be co-led by Tina Charpentier, senior vice president with the Environmental Sciences practice in Minneapolis, and Laura Cubillos, FoodMinds founder and executive vice president with the Food + Beverage practice in San Francisco.

“The almond industry has embarked on an effort to accelerate innovation and improve sustainable practices within the industry,” said Carissa Sauer, the Almond Board’s manager of industry communications. “We wanted an agency partner that understands consumers, farmers, processors, perennial farming of fruits and nuts, food safety, the changing landscape of sustainability and the unique social and regulatory environment in California. We found that partner in Padilla.”

Lynn Casey, Padilla’s CEO, said that food, beverage and nutrition continue to be strong growth areas for the agency, both with commodity boards, such as the Almond Board, and with consumer packaged goods.

“We’re delighted to grow our work with the Almond Board,” Casey said. “This complex industry communications assignment is a testament to our expertise and passion for all aspects of the food industry.”

“Our team seamlessly brings together environmental science and regulatory experience, food and nutrition expertise, creative and digital prowess, research and strategic insights,” said Cubillos, who leads the agency’s San Francisco office.

The combined roster of food clients at Padilla and FoodMinds includes the Alliance for Potato Research and Education (APRE), Hass Avocado Board, the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers, Land O’Lakes, Nestlé, Prosciutto di Parma, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, Welch’s and many others.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Welch’s. Padilla is a founding member of The WorldCom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

About the Almond Board

Almonds from California are a natural, wholesome and quality food. The Almond Board of California promotes almonds through its research-based approach to all aspects of marketing, farming and production on behalf of the more than 6,000 almond growers and processors in California, many of whom are multi-generational family operations. Established in 1950 and based in Modesto, California, the Almond Board of California is a non-profit organization that administers a grower-enacted Federal Marketing Order under the supervision of the United States Department of Agriculture. For more information on the Almond Board of California or almonds, visit Almonds.com or check out California Almonds on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and the California Almonds blog.

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Media contact: [email protected]

RICHMOND, Va. (May 10, 2017) – Padilla earned a total of 24 awards – including a sweep of the Best in Show Awards – at the 70^th Annual Virginia PR Awards, sponsored by the Richmond Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA Richmond).

The agency won the Commonwealth Best in Show Award, which recognizes public relations programs or campaigns, for its “Smooves” into New Headquarters campaign for the Virginia Lottery. The campaign also earned the Award of Excellence for Internal Communications.

Padilla tied itself to earn two Capital Best in Show Awards, which recognize tactics implemented as part of a larger public relations program or campaign. One was for Padilla’s interactive tour for the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU’s new Children’s Pavilion, which also won an Award of Excellence in the Websites category.

The second Capital Best in Show Award was for the agency’s work with Bridgestone Retail Operations to prepare drivers for the winter weather, which also earned an Award of Excellence in the highly competitive Media Relations category.

Blake Mirzayan, an account executive in the agency’s Richmond office, also was named PRSA Richmond’s Rising Star. The Rising Star Award was instituted in 2010 to recognize an outstanding new member of the public relations profession who has five or fewer years of experience in PR.

Padilla also was recognized with Virginia PR Awards for its client work in the following categories:

Awards of Excellence

Virginia Lottery

Community Relations

Direct Mail / Direct Response

Extended Events and Observances

Press Conferences

Social Media

U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

Marketing Consumer Products

Awards of Merit

Virginia529 College Savings Plan

Community Relations

Media Relations

Public Service

Virginia Lottery

Editorial / Op-Ed Columns

Internal Communications

Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU

Extended Events and Observances

Internal Communications

HNTB

Editorial / Op-Ed Columns

Prosciutto di Parma

Websites

Afton Chemicals

Websites

Wilsonart

Media Relations

Each year, PRSA Richmond recognizes outstanding public relations professionals and their work at the Virginia Public Relations Awards. Over its 70-year history, the chapter’s awards program has recognized the most creative and effective communications strategies and tactics happening across Virginia.

The Commonwealth Awards recognize exceptional public relations programs or campaigns, and the Capital Awards recognize outstanding public relations tactics that were implemented as part of a larger public relations program or campaign. Awards of Merit also are given in both categories.

A complete list of 2017 winners can be found at PRSARichmond.org.

Earlier this year, Padilla was also recognized by the Minnesota chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (Minnesota PRSA) with six awards at the 39^th Annual Classics Awards, including Best in Show for its work with Niagara Conservation.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (May 2, 2017) – Padilla has been recognized by The Holmes Report as the 2017 North America Digital Campaign Gold SABRE Award Winner with client Niagara Conservation.

To learn more about Padilla and Niagara Conservation’s #WhatTheFlush: Disrupting the Water Conservation Conversation campaign, visit PadillaCo.com for our video. View the complete list of 2017 North America SABRE winners at holmesreport.com.

The 2017 North America SABRE Awards winners were selected from among more than 2,000 entries in this year’s competition, which recognizes Superior Achievement in Branding, Reputation and Engagement. The campaigns were evaluated by a jury of more than 40 industry leaders.

The winners were announced at the awards ceremony on May 2 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York along with the Agencies of the Year, in which Padilla was named a finalist for Creative Agency of the Year.

Earlier this year, Padilla also earned a 2017 North America Innovation & Insights SABRE (In2SABRE) Award with Niagara Conservation for Best Consumer Goods Campaign.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (May 1, 2017) – Padilla has been recognized with two Bronze Anvil Awards and four Bronze Anvil Awards of Commendation given by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

The agency was recognized for its public relations tactics in the following categories:

2017 Bronze Anvil Winners

Media Relations (Government)
ABLEnow Launches with National Recognition
Padilla with Virginia529 College Savings Plans

Media Relations (Business-To-Business: Other)
You Want Me to Plant What? Living Acres
Padilla with BASF

2017 Bronze Anvil Awards of Commendation

Creative Tactics (Associations/Government/Nonprofit Organizations)
The Virginia Lottery’s “Thank a Teacher” Campaign
Padilla with The Virginia Lottery

Media Relations (Business-to-Business: Products)
Altering Perceptions of Digital Manufacturing
Padilla with Proto Labs

Media Relations (Consumer Services: Travel and Tourism/Hospitality)
Tru by Hilton Disrupts the Industry
Padilla with Hilton

Websites (External)
From Obsolete to Cutting Edge: Reinvigorating Proscuitto di Parma’s Web Presence
Padilla with Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma

About PRSA Bronze Anvil Awards

For more than 45 years, the Bronze Anvil Awards have celebrated the “best of the best” in public relations tactics — the individual items or components that contribute to the success of an overall program or campaign. These tactics — whether a media relations program, website, annual report, podcast, blog or use of social media — are the hardworking parts of any successful public relations program.

View the complete list of 2017 PRSA Bronze Anvil Winners at PRSA.org.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (April 21, 2017) – The Minnesota chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (Minnesota PRSA) awarded Padilla with six awards at the 39th annual Classics Awards, including Best in Show for its work with Niagara Conservation.

The agency’s work with Niagara Conservation – #WhatTheFlush: Disrupting the Water Conservation Conversation – also won in the Integrated Communications Campaign (Products) and Industry Campaign of the Year (Consumer Products) categories.

To learn more about Padilla and Niagara Conservation’s water-saving campaign, visit PadillaCo.com for the video case story.

Padilla was also recognized with Classics Awards for its client work in the following categories:

Community Relations, Agency/Organization with > 25 Employees
Insurer Takes a Leap of Faith to Save Its Flock
Padilla with Concordia Plan Services

Industry Campaign of the Year (B2B)
Living Acres: Preserving Monarch Butterflies
Padilla with BASF

Social Media Promotion, Agency/Organization with > 25 Employees
Engineers Swipe Right for Rockwell Automation
Padilla with Rockwell Automation

Minnesota PRSA held its 39th annual Classics Awards last night at The Machine Shop in Minneapolis, celebrating cutting-edge creativity and innovative thinking in the public relations industry throughout the past year. Top campaigns featured extraordinary talent and craft by driving engagement among diverse audiences through digital, content marketing, influencer outreach, experiential events and much more.

View the news release with the complete list of 2017 Classics winners at MinnesotaPRSA.org.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (March 20, 2017) – Starting today, PadillaCRT is going to be called Padilla. The agency brand refresh includes the launch of a new website and updated brand identity for Padilla, a top 10 independent public relations and communications company.

“The name change is a natural progression for our company since so many of our employees, clients and industry partners already refer to us as Padilla,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “We took advantage of the change to totally revamp our website, emphasizing the breadth of our expertise as well as our proven ability to help clients build and grow as well as protect their brands.”

Padilla has 240 employee-owners in Minneapolis, Minnesota; New York, New York; Chicago, Illinois; Richmond, Virginia; Washington, D.C., San Francisco, California; and Los Angeles, California. Padilla also has three additional divisions – brand consultancy Joe Smith, food and nutrition communications firm FoodMinds and research firm SMS Research Advisors.

“All aspects of the reimagined brand and site reflect Padilla’s evolution as we continue to broaden our holistic approach to public relations, branding, advertising, design, digital strategy and innovation,” said Heath Rudduck, Padilla chief creative officer.

The agency – which was founded in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1961 – changed its name from Padilla Speer Beardsley (PSB) to PadillaCRT in 2013, following the acquisition of Richmond-based CRT/tanaka. That company was originally founded as Carter Ryley Thomas (CRT) in 1996, but changed its name after acquiring New York-based Patrice Tanaka & Co., Inc. in 2005.

“Removing CRT from our name doesn’t change who we are. We continue to maintain our employee-ownership culture, a dedication to shared values and a commitment to community service,” said Mark Raper, Padilla chief counsel officer. Raper led the group of employees who founded CRT and served as its CEO until it was acquired by PSB. He served as president of PadillaCRT until Matt Kucharski was promoted to president in February.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee-owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

MINNEAPOLIS (March 16, 2017) – Padilla has been recognized with two PRWeek Honorable Mention Awards for our work with Niagara Conservation and its ultra-high efficiency Stealth® toilet. The agency was recognized in the Best Consumer Launch and Best Content categories with #WhatTheFlush: Disrupting the Water Conservation Conversation.

To learn more about Padilla and Niagara Conservation’s water-saving campaign, visit PadillaCo.com for the video case story.

Now entering its 18th year, the PRWeek Awards are one of the communications industry’s highest accolades. They celebrate the best of the best corporate, agency, nonprofit and education teams. The 2017 PRWeek Awards ceremony took place at Cipriani Wall Street in New York on March 16.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (March 2, 2017) – Padilla today announced employee promotions across several of its industry and functional groups. The agency considers candidates for promotion semiannually. These nine individuals were recognized for their contributions at Padilla and FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

New York

Danielle Pesce was promoted from account supervisor to director in Padilla’s Food + Beverage Practice.

Minneapolis

Tim Nelson was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor in Padilla’s Technology Practice.

Katie Priebe was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Crisis/Critical Issues and Media Relations Practice.

Shalee Hanson was promoted from marketing and business development coordinator to marketing operations/social media specialist for Padilla’s Business Development and Agency Marketing Group.

Chicago

Cassie Verdi, R.D., was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor for FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Moira Allison, M.B.A., R.D., was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive for FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Laura Campbell, R.D., was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive for FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Richmond

Blake Mirzayan was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Corporate Practice.

Washington D.C.

Melissa Mowery was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Consumer Practice.

About Padilla
PadillaCRT is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company. Its 240 employee owners use insightful strategies to help clients develop purposeful connections with the people who are important to their success. The company’s 360-degree approach leverages research, brand strategy, advertising, design, digital, social, mobile, media relations, events and crisis management expertise to build corporate and product brands with customers, investors, employees and communities. Brand consultancy Joe Smith and market research firm SMS Research Advisors are integral parts of PadillaCRT. FoodMinds, an award-winning food and nutrition communications and consulting company, is a wholly owned division of PadillaCRT. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. PadillaCRT is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (February 21, 2017) – Padilla was recognized as one of the 2017 B2B Top Shops from Chief Marketer, a listing of the top B2B marketing agencies throughout the United States. Chosen by the editors of the leading marketing publication, Padilla was awarded the honor because of the company’s depth of client work, creative acumen and analytical experience, among other factors.

“On behalf of our 240 employee owners, we are honored and excited to be recognized by Chief Marketer as a 2017 B2B Top Shop,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “Every day, our team works tirelessly to take advantage of the changing landscape of marketing and communications innovation in order to drive meaningful business value for our client partners and their customers.”

Through an integrated communications approach, Padilla provides a suite of marketing and communications solutions for its B2B clients in agribusiness, environmental sciences, financial services, health, manufacturing and technology. Its in-house research and insights team provides the foundation for the central strategy that comes to life through multiple channels. Emphasis is placed on meaningful and trackable engagement as well as bottom-line outcomes.

B2B Top Shops is an online searchable directory highlighting each agency’s core services and contact information, offering users a behind-the-scenes look at each shop’s culture and client work. B2B brands, vendors and marketers viewed this easy-to-use resource on ChiefMarketer.com almost 73,000 times this year alone.

About Chief Marketer
Chief Marketer, published by Access Intelligence, charts the customer journey from acquisition and engagement through conversion and retention. Via ChiefMarketer.com, print products, live events, awards programs and more, Chief Marketer offers data-driven intelligence, actionable insights, inspiring case studies and the latest technology trends to help marketers improve their campaigns and increase ROI.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS – (February 17, 2017) Padilla has been recognized by The Holmes Report as the winner of the 2017 North America In2SABRE Award for Best Consumer Goods Campaign with client Niagara Conservation and their ultra-high efficiency Stealth® toilet. The judges said, “It had everything – great insight, great execution, great results.” To learn more about Padilla and Niagara Conservation’s #WhatTheFlush water-saving campaign, visit PadillaCo.com for the video case story.

The Holmes Report’s In2Summit is a global network of events that explore the innovation and disruption that continue to redefine influence and engagement. Events included the 2017 Innovation & Insights SABRE Awards – North America. The awards ceremony took place at the W Hotel in downtown Chicago on February 16.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (February 7, 2017) – Matt Kucharski, a veteran communications, marketing and public relations strategist, has been promoted to president of Padilla. He succeeds Mark Raper, who moves into the new role of chief counsel officer at Padilla. Lynn Casey continues as the company’s CEO.

Kucharski joined the agency in 1989. As a member of Padilla’s Executive Leadership Team, he leads the agency’s business-to-business and business-to-consumer practices. In his new role, the agency’s health practice also will report to Kucharski. As a seasoned business counselor, Kucharski has expertise in branding, corporate communications, reputation management and issues management.

“Matt is a big-picture thinker and sought-after counselor. He truly defines what it means to be a leader in our industry,” said Casey. “Thanks to Mark’s leadership and vision, and Matt’s willingness to assume the mantle of president, Padilla is ready to move forward and make 2017 and beyond the best years of our company.”

“Matt is universally respected and admired by clients and staff – including me,” Raper said. “As I transition toward retirement next year, I am thrilled that someone of his caliber will assume the role of president.”

Kucharski also serves as Padilla liaison to the Worldcom Public Relations Group, the world’s largest partnership of independent communications firms, and served as chair of Worldcom from 2010-2012. He sits on the board and executive committee of the Minnesota High Tech Association, the Twin Cities American Heart Association board of directors and the national board of Pheasants Forever, one of the nation’s most respected conservation organizations. He also performs ad hoc consulting for a variety of nonprofit and community groups.

Kucharski has spent more than 15 years as an adjunct instructor of marketing and strategic communications at the University of Minnesota and frequently serves as a panelist, guest speaker and moderator on a range of strategic communications, marketing and business strategy topics. He graduated with a degree in journalism and business administration from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (January 19, 2017) – The Conseil Interprofessionnel du Vin de Bordeaux (CIVB), which represents and promotes nearly 6,600 wine growers and 300 wine merchants in France’s respected Bordeaux wine region, has selected Padilla as its public relations agency of record for the United States. The work will be based primarily out of the agency’s New York office.

“We’re excited to partner with Padilla on our consumer, trade and influencer public relations activities in the U.S.,” said François Jumeau, CIVB marketing manager. “Padilla’s creativity, dynamism and professionalism, as well as its extensive experience working with other wine regions, make the agency an ideal fit for promoting Bordeaux wines.”

“Bordeaux is considered one of the world’s seminal wine regions,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “What makes Bordeaux so exciting is that its wines come in a variety of styles, colors and price points, so there is a great opportunity to tell the full story of Bordeaux wines and showcase their versatility and food-friendliness. The unparalleled history of the region is coupled with a new generation of growers and winemakers who honor both innovation and deep-rooted tradition. They are expanding the definition of Bordeaux, while remaining anchored in the spirit of the region’s people and wine. Padilla is thrilled with the opportunity to work with the region at such a dynamic time.”

About the Conseil Interprofessionnel du Vin de Bordeaux (CIVB)
The CIVB represents nearly 6,600 Bordeaux producers and 300 négociants (wine merchants). It has four missions:

• Marketing: through various communication campaigns, the CIVB promotes the interests of its members on a national and international scale.
• Through its Economic Research Service, the CIVB aims to improve the knowledge of its members, about market trends, from production to distribution.
• A technical mission is addressing all quality-related issues, anticipating new environmental and food safety stipulations and conserving and protecting viticultural heritage assets.
• Finally, the general interest of the industry: protecting terroirs, fighting against counterfeiting and developing wine tourism.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

Millennials with Large Amounts of College Debt Harder to Retain and Incent

MINNEAPOLIS (January 10, 2017) – In sheer numbers, millennials may soon rule the workplace. But new research indicates that the crushing amount of student loan debt they have incurred will rule key life milestones (i.e., marriage, children and homeownership) and affect their level of engagement at work.

According to an ORC International survey commissioned by Padilla, a top 10 independent public relations and communications agency, a large percentage of millennials believe their student loan repayments will last well into their 30s and even 40s. Survey results reveal:

• One in four millennials owe more than $30,000 in college debt, and expect to take more than 20 years to pay off their loans.
• Women are two times more likely than men to think it will take more than 20 years to pay off their college debt.

As a result, millennial employees don’t feel financially secure. This financial insecurity delays traditional life events, impacts how they engage with the workplace and affects how employers can retain them.

“Every month, millennials are making student loan payments, which can feel like a mortgage payment,” said Natalie Smith, senior vice president, Padilla, who leads the agency’s employee engagement team within its Corporate Practice. “This student loan debt impacts millennials of all ages and backgrounds. Given the competition for top talent, employers must update their approach in order to engage and retain millennials, especially among women, who were found to carry a bigger burden of student loan debt.”

Smith is referring to the study findings that:

• Forty-two percent of women have more than $30,000 in college debt, compared with 27 percent of men.
• Thirty-seven percent of women are less likely to stay with their current employer because of their current financial situation, compared with 25 percent of men.

Student loan assistance trumps flexibility

For millennials, the next 10 to 20 years after college typically include major life milestones. From purchasing a new car and buying a house to getting married and having children, the survey showed millennials are choosing to delay these milestones because of their outstanding debt. These delays not only impact their personal life, but also their engagement levels at work.

For companies, engaged employees are more than just nice to have – they’re integral to business success. Over time, highly engaged workforces outperform less-engaged companies by 147 percent higher earnings per share and enjoy a 90 percent better growth trend, according to a 2013 Gallup study.

With millennials expected to make up 75 percent of the workforce by 2025, it’s imperative that companies understand how their needs, preferences and life stages drive their approach to and engagement with work. However, based on a 2016 Gallup study, companies are still missing the mark – only 29 percent of millennials consider themselves engaged at work, less than all other generations. And survey results revealed similar alarming stats that companies need to be aware of as their workforce changes:

• Only 55 percent of millennials feel like they have a good idea of what is going on at their company.
• Fifty-nine percent of millennials value student loan repayment assistance over other options, including more workday flexibility (51 percent) – a new finding compared to previous surveys that placed flexibility at the top of the list of engagement drivers.

“Engaged employees show greater initiative and approach work more passionately and creatively – essentially, they are willing to put in extra effort to help their company succeed. But when it comes to creating an engaged workforce, one size does not fit all. To excite and engage employees, companies must keep employees’ ages and life stages in mind,” said Smith.

To engage and retain millennials – and other employees – companies should consider the following:

• Purpose is powerful: Invite millennials to play an active role in building a corporate culture that engages them and drives the company forward.
• Culture is key: Celebrate the small wins and create opportunities for employees to see the impact they are making.
• Options are essential: Align benefits and opportunities for involvement with employee preferences and give employees opportunities to choose those that are relevant for their age and stage.

“Engaging and retaining millennial employees is a challenge all companies face,” said Smith. “However, companies that understand the personal and financial situations facing millennials after graduation, and then tailor their engagement strategy accordingly, will reap the benefits of a highly engaged workforce that is willing to go the extra mile to drive the company forward.”

View the “Weighing Down Workplace Engagement” infographic here.

About the ORC International survey
Padilla commissioned ORC International to survey 1,000 millennials with at least a four-year college degree between the ages of 22-35 on May 24-29, 2016 to take a closer look at the impact student loan debt is having on this generation. Respondents for this survey were selected from among those who have volunteered to participate in online surveys and polls. Because the sample is based on those who initially self-selected for participation, no estimates of sampling error can be calculated. ORC International is a collaborative and consultative research partner to hundreds of organizations around the globe.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (November 29, 2016) – Barry Saunders, principal of Joe Smith, Padilla’s brand consultancy, and several communications industry leaders recently gathered in the agency’s New York office for a PRWeek Brand Connection Roundtable.

Gideon Fidelzeid, PRWeek U.S. managing editor, moderated the discussion. Ginger Hardage, recently retired SVP of culture and communications at Southwest Airlines, presented the keynote address on building a brand from the inside-out.

Besides Saunders, Brand Connection panelists included:

– Leslie Coyne, global head of GE University Relations, GE

– Amy Davis, division chair, communications, Mayo Clinic

– Teresa Yoo, VP, brand strategy and experience design, IBM

These industry experts covered myriad topics including customer perspectives, the incorporation of purpose and value, storytelling, empowering employees and the way brand-building has evolved over the past decade.

You can read the extended version of their conversation, Inviting The World Inside: The Brand Connection Roundtable, on PRWeek.com. To view the feature as it appeared in the December 2016 issue of PRWeek, click here.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (November 15, 2016) – Welch’s, the processing and marketing subsidiary of the National Grape Cooperative, has selected Padilla to lead its consumer public relations and media relations programs. Welch’s is owned by about 1,000 family farmers who make up this Cooperative and who grow Concord grapes in vineyards across North America.

Welch’s has a long-standing relationship with food and nutrition communications firm FoodMinds, which was acquired by Padilla earlier this year. Padilla will create and execute media relations campaigns for Welch’s 100% grape juices, including a satellite media tour and a blogger relations program to support the recently launched “Mighty Concord” campaign.

“With Padilla onboard, we’re able to expand our consumer outreach efforts and amplify the science-backed heart health benefits of the Concord grape and 100% grape juice made with Concord grapes. We look forward to collaborating with them, and tapping into their creative media relations expertise,” said Welch’s Health and Nutrition Lead, Casey Lewis, MS, RD.

“When Padilla acquired FoodMinds earlier this year, we expanded capabilities for our food, beverage and nutrition clients,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “The well-established partnership between FoodMinds and Welch’s paved the way for Padilla to enhance that relationship with our media relations expertise. As an employee-owned agency, we especially look forward to working with the highly respected and family-farmer owned brand, Welch’s.”

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

NEW YORK (November 7, 2016) – Health care marketing veteran Peter Vigliarolo has joined Padilla as vice president in the Health Practice, based in the agency’s New York office. He will help spearhead efforts to attract pharmaceutical and health association clients to the agency.

Peter brings more than 25 years of health care public relations experience encompassing marketing, corporate communications, media relations and health care policy. He has developed major advocacy and policy initiatives and campaigns working in partnership with numerous high-profile health organizations, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Department of Health & Human Services’ (DHHS)/U.S. Surgeon General’s Office, the American Lung Association (ALA), the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), among others. Peter most recently served as senior vice president at Cooney Waters Unlimited.

“Padilla is dedicated to growing our expertise in building, growing and protecting health organizations’ brands and reputations,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “Peter’s experience with global pharmaceutical companies and national health nonprofits will be a strong asset in helping us achieve agency growth goals in the health sector.”

Peter’s prior experience also includes medical and science communications, health issues management, crisis communications and product market development for several pharmaceutical companies and health organizations including Sanofi Pasteur, Novartis Vaccines, Seqirus, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), among others.

“As part of Padilla’s growing Health Practice, I look forward to helping pharmaceutical and nonprofit clients establish and/or advance their thought leadership to shape and grow how they are perceived by key audiences,” Vigliarolo said. “Research-based strategies informed by independent, expert perspectives from partners and influencers are essential for market development and growth.”

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (October 27, 2016) – For the third consecutive year, Padilla has recognized employees who have made outstanding contributions to the agency in one of three categories – Client, Culture and Community – with the Living Our Purpose Awards. Each winner receives an award of appreciation and a cash stipend.

“Padilla’s annual Living Our Purpose Award gives us an opportunity to honor employees who have gone above and beyond the call of duty; have found creative and innovative solutions to challenges facing clients, our agency or the community; and consistently demonstrate an owner’s mentality, embodying our values in the workplace,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “The employees honored this year come from across our agency and represent what it means to be a Padilla employee.”

2016 Living Our Purpose Award Winners:

Client – Thea Buri and Nicole Fischer

An associate creative director in Padilla’s Creative and Digital Group, Thea Buri produces stunning creative deliverables for clients. Colleagues recognized Thea for her ability to solve business problems through design-centric thinking and to articulate design rationales effectively. She’s based in the agency’s Minneapolis office.

Nicole Fischer, an account supervisor in Padilla’s Consumer Practice in New York, is known for the high quality of work she brings to all of her client accounts, across multiple industries, which include Coppertone and Prosciutto di Parma. Her professionalism and relentless enthusiasm are major assets to her clients and colleagues.

Culture – Jeff Wilson and Laura Krinke

Jeff Wilson, vice president in the agency’s Business Development and Agency Marketing Group, consistently goes the extra mile when it comes to spearheading new business and marketing initiatives for the agency. Colleagues recognized Jeff’s ability to easily work across the agency’s network of offices, as well as the numerous value-added contributions he brings to the agency. He works from Padilla’s Richmond office.

Laura Krinke, senior account executive in the agency’s Environmental Science Practice, has helped shape the culture of Padilla’s Minneapolis office and the agency as a whole. While she works hard to support her clients, Laura’s colleagues also recognized her ability to bring people together in a positive and fun work environment.

Community – Gayle Kelly and Cheryl Robinson 

Gayle Kelly, director of operations in Padilla’s Richmond office, and Cheryl Robinson, director in the agency’s Corporate Practice and based in Los Angeles, were nominated jointly for their efforts in the agency’s annual Cookies for Kids’ Cancer Richmond City-Wide Bake Sale fundraiser. Gayle and Cheryl have been a crucial part of the fundraising effort since the beginning of Cookies for Kids’ Cancer in 2007, and they continue to dedicate an extraordinary amount of time and effort to the cause. Colleagues recognized Gayle and Cheryl for tirelessly working to raise funds and awareness for pediatric cancer and for truly making a difference in the community.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

New Chief Science Officer bolsters FoodMinds capabilities in food & nutrition science

Chicago, Ill. (October 25, 2016) – FoodMinds, an award-winning food and nutrition communications and consulting company, is pleased to welcome Mitch Kanter, PhD as its Chief Science Officer.

In his new role, Kanter will work closely with FoodMinds co-founders Laura Cubillos, RD, Bill Layden and Susan Pitman, MA, RD, to advise clients on the critical science and evidentiary issues facing the food, beverage, nutrition, health and wellness sectors. He also will co-lead the Global ExpertBench™, a network of nutrition experts spanning six continents.

“Dr. Kanter’s proven track record of success in developing and sustaining effective clinical research and nutrition affairs programs, coupled with his deep insights into the state-of-the-science across multiple food and beverage categories, will be a tremendous asset to our clients and our talented team members,” said FoodMinds co-founder Sue Pitman, MA, RD.

Having most recently served as Executive Director of the American Egg Board/Egg Nutrition Center, Dr. Kanter has more than 25 years of experience working for multi-national food companies, including The Quaker Oats/Gatorade Company, General Mills and Cargill. He has served in a variety of roles including Director of the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, and Director of Clinical Nutrition Research and Scientific Communications (Quaker Oats); Director of Health and Nutrition Sciences (General Mills); and Discovery Director, Director of Venturing, and Director of Health and Nutrition (Cargill).

Kanter has published numerous articles in scholarly journals, written over 150 articles in health professional and lay-oriented publications, and presented at lay and technical conferences all over the world on topics ranging from nutrition and disease prevention, antioxidant supplementation and health, nutrigenomics, the future of functional foods, and regulatory issues that impact food company health claims.

“FoodMinds operates at the intersection of science, communication, public affairs and consumer values,” said Dr. Kanter. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to help the team continue to bring value-added insights and programs to our clients, as well as to have a positive impact on public health.”

About FoodMinds
FoodMinds, a division of Padilla, is a food and nutrition communications and consulting firm that is boldly transforming the way the world thinks about food, nutrition and health. With offices in Chicago, Washington, DC and San Francisco, FoodMinds expertly navigates science, public affairs, consumer values and communications to create breakthrough strategies and help clients tell a better story. The firm has more than 40 employees, including 15 registered dietitians and a PhD, along with a global network of nearly 30 nutrition affairs experts. Over the past year, it expanded its capabilities in Strategic Insights and Issues & Crisis Navigation and continued to grow its global footprint.

The winner of the 2013 Holmes Report Boutique Agency of the Year and the 2012 Gold SABRE award in the public affairs category, FoodMinds was named a finalist for PRWeek’s 2015 Small Agency of the Year award and was cited by the 2014 Holmes World PR Report as one of the 10 fastest-growing U.S. PR companies. For more information, visit www.foodminds.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (October 14, 2016) – Padilla announces employee promotions across several of its industry practices and groups. Twice each year the agency considers candidates for promotion. These sixteen individuals were recognized for their contributions at Padilla and FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Minneapolis

Tina Charpentier was promoted from vice president to senior vice president in Padilla’s Environmental Sciences Practice. As leader of the sector, she has led an agency transition to broader capabilities around agriculture, water and energy.

Tracy Carlson was promoted from director to senior director in Padilla’s Media Relations Practice.

Rohit Keshwani was promoted from senior developer to associate solutions architect in Padilla’s Creative and Digital Group.

Thea Buri was promoted from senior designer to associate creative director in Padilla’s Creative and Digital Group.

Alisa Coddington was promoted from senior analyst to manager, market intelligence in Padilla’s Insights Group.

Beatrice Zvosec was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Manufacturing/Technology Practice.

Lauren Huisinga was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Investor Relations Practice.

Molly O’Mara was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Manufacturing/Technology Practice.

Lacey Poppe was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Environmental Sciences Practice.

Meredith Gallagher was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Investor Relations Practice.

New York

Rachel McPherson was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Food and Beverage Practice.

Chicago

Allison Mikita was promoted from director to senior director for FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

Richmond

Jeff Wilson was promoted from senior director to vice president in Padilla’s Business Development and Agency Marketing Group.

Samantha Cox was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor in Padilla’s Corporate Relations Practice.

Catie Frech was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in Padilla’s Corporate Relations Practice.

San Francisco

Jessica Hall was promoted from assistant account executive to account executive for FoodMinds, a division of Padilla.

About Padilla
Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company. Its 240 employee owners use insightful strategies to help clients develop purposeful connections with the people who are important to their success. The company’s 360-degree approach leverages research, brand strategy, advertising, design, digital, social, mobile, media relations, events and crisis management expertise to build corporate and product brands with customers, investors, employees and communities. Brand consultancy Joe Smith and market research firm SMS Research Advisors are integral parts of Padilla. FoodMinds, an award-winning food and nutrition communications and consulting company, is a wholly owned division of Padilla. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

Survey by FoodMinds also found a steady increase in people who believe the primary responsibility for making the right food choices lies with society rather than the individual

Chicago, Ill. (October 5, 2016) – At a time when Democrats and Republicans agree on few solutions to the challenges facing America, FoodMinds’ fourth “Food Temperance in America” survey found two out of three Opinion Leader Shoppers – registered voters that express their food values in the grocery store, in public forums and in their politics – support including food policy issues in the presidential debates, with 76 percent of Democrat Opinion Leader Shoppers and 50 percent of Republican Opinion Leader Shoppers thinking the presidential candidates should debate policy options around access to food, food assistance programs, food safety and education on healthy food choices. There was an uptick among Republican Opinion Leader Shoppers calling for the inclusion of food issues in the debates, with only 42 percent of this group favoring food policy deliberation in 2012, the last time FoodMinds conducted the survey.

While food policy approaches differ between Democrats and Republicans, there has been a significant shift since 2010 in Opinion Leader Shoppers’ thinking about who holds the primary responsibility for making the right food choices to stay healthy and avoid obesity.

“Since the FoodMinds Food Temperance Survey was first fielded in January 2010, there has been a steady shift in perceived responsibility away from the individual and toward other parts of society including food companies, government, health care and education,” said Grant Prentice, senior vice president, strategic insights, FoodMinds. “In fact, during this six-year time frame there has been a 15-point change among Opinion Leader Shoppers, with more than 50 percent of such shoppers now believing the primary responsibility for making the right food choices lies with society rather than the individual.” While Republican Opinion Leader Shoppers are more likely to place responsibility on the individual compared to Democrats, the percent of Republicans focused on individual responsibility dropped from 67 percent in 2012 to 59 percent in 2016.

The “Food Temperance in America” survey tracks opinions on food policy topics among registered voters and Opinion Leader Shoppers, a group of politically aware and socially active consumers who are registered voters and primary grocery shoppers for their households.

Not surprisingly, Democrat Opinion Leader Shoppers show much stronger approval for government intervention to limit consumption of unhealthy foods, with 71 percent approving increased intervention relative to only 34 percent of Republicans approving of increased government intervention in food choice and efforts to limit consumption of unhealthy foods.

“It is clear that Republican and Democratic Opinion Leader Shoppers hold different opinions on food policy and these voters want Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump to debate pressing food policy matters during this election. Given the significant difference of opinion on best policies to adopt, it is imperative that the country engage in this debate,” said Bill Layden, founder and executive vice president, FoodMinds.

FoodMinds, a food and nutrition consulting company, keeps its finger-on-the-pulse of Opinion Leader Shoppers to help clients navigate shifts in consumer sentiment that may affect marketing potential. For a complete overview of survey findings, visit foodminds.com.

About the “Food Temperance in America” Survey
Led by FoodMinds’ Strategic Insights team, the fourth “Food Temperance in America” survey was conducted using Toluna’s social voting community of more than 10 million people between September 7 and September 15, 2016. The sample of 684 Opinion Leader Shoppers was balanced on age, gender, income and region. The margin of error for Opinion Leader Shoppers is +/- 3.7 percent, Democratic Opinion Leader Shoppers is +/-5.2 percent and Republican Opinion Leader Shoppers is +/-6.8 percent.

About FoodMinds
FoodMinds, a division of Padilla, is a food and nutrition communications and consulting company that is boldly transforming the way the world thinks about food, nutrition and health. With offices in Chicago, Washington, DC and San Francisco, FoodMinds expertly navigates science, public affairs and communications to create breakthrough strategies and help clients tell a better story. The firm has 35 employees, including 15 registered dietitians, and a global network of 40 nutrition affairs experts. Over the past year, it expanded its capabilities in Strategic Insights and Issues & Crisis Navigation and continued to grow its global footprint. The winner of the 2013 Holmes Report Boutique Agency of the Year and the 2012 Gold SABRE award in the public affairs category, FoodMinds was named a finalist for PRWeek’s 2015 Small Agency of the Year award and was cited by the 2014 Holmes World PR Report as one of the 10 fastest-growing U.S. PR companies. For more information, visit foodminds.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (September 21, 2016) – Ribera del Duero and Rueda, two of the leading wine regions in Spain, have selected Padilla to lead their trade marketing program in the U.S. The Ribera del Duero region is known worldwide for its Tempranillo grapes and red wines, and Rueda for its Verdejo grapes and white wines. Both regions are highly regarded for producing some of the finest Spanish wines today. PadillaCRT will create and execute a trade marketing campaign to increase the availability of Ribera del Duero and Rueda wines, and raise their profile with importers, distributors and retailers in the U.S. food and beverage industry.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to partner with Padilla to develop the tools and programs that will inspire the industry to include Ribera del Duero and Rueda wines among the first choices for wine list development,” said Felipe Gonzalez-Gordon, director of D.O. Ribera del Duero and D.O. Rueda. “With Padilla’s extensive experience working in the wine and beverage space, we believe our trade program will be key to the success of our partners in the competitive U.S. market.”

“We are thrilled to be working with Ribera del Duero and Rueda, two awe-inspiring wine regions in Spain, to build loyalty for their brands and make them ubiquitous in the North American market,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO.

About D.O. Ribera del Duero
Located roughly two hours northwest of Madrid, D.O. Ribera del Duero provides a benchmark for quality in the Spanish wine category throughout the world. With an extreme climate perfectly suited for quality grape-growing and ripening, Ribera del Duero wines represent the pinnacle of Spanish winemaking and the ultimate expression of Spain’s most noble red grape: Tempranillo. The region’s frigid winters and a rocky, rigid terrain produce Tempranillo grapes that develop a character all their own, resulting in full-bodied, rugged wines with a multitude of pairing options.

About D.O. Rueda
D.O. Rueda was founded in 1980, the first D.O. in Castilla y Leon and is ranked as the top white wine region in the Spanish market, according to Nielsen. Situated on a high plateau with a continental climate, Rueda has long cold winters, short springs and hot summers, perfect for the Verdejo grape, the dominant varietal in the region. High elevations and gravelly stone soils allow the Verdejo to ripen by mid-September and develop deep aromas and flavors resulting in dry, fresh wines that are food-friendly and accessible.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (August 16, 2016) – Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO, has been honored by AARP Minnesota and Pollen as one of the 50 most accomplished and inspiring Minnesotans over the age of 50. Leaders in the state of Minnesota were nominated in one of five categories: disruptor, arts, nonprofit, community and business.

The goal of the 50 Over 50 endeavor was to prove that aging doesn’t diminish an individual’s potential or value to our communities. It’s time to recognize that possibilities shouldn’t be limited by age and to change the stories we tell ourselves about aging.

Visit 50Over50MN.org to see the first-ever 50 Over 50 list celebrating leaders from across Minnesota. A recognition ceremony for honorees is scheduled for Thursday, October 13, at the Machine Shop in Minneapolis, with a keynote address by AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins.

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Media contact: [email protected]

Chicago, Ill. (August 4, 2016) – FoodMinds announced that after a competitive review it has been selected as agency of record for the nutrition research programs of the Alliance for Potato Research and Education (APRE).

“FoodMinds attracted our interest by demonstrating strong capabilities and a proven track record of success in developing and sustaining effective clinical research and nutrition affairs programs,” said Frank D. Finn, APRE board chairman and President of McCain Foods US.  “FoodMinds has the experience and nutrition and scientific credentials the APRE program needs. Our program will have a clear focus on understanding through scientific research the role all forms of potatoes — a nutritious vegetable — may have in promoting good nutrition and health for all age groups.”

FoodMinds, which was acquired by Padilla in May, will work with APRE to establish research priorities and objectives to advance the body of scientific evidence about the role of potatoes in a healthy diet.  The work will include managing the research pipeline in coordination with APRE’s Scientific Advisory Committee.  FoodMinds – with 15 dietitians on staff and PhD expertise – also will provide insights and strategic analysis on key nutrition topics, and support in the communication of research in scientific forums and with the broader research community.

Sue Pitman, MA, RD, Executive Vice President and co-founder of FoodMinds, said “This exciting new work with APRE fits well with our expertise in navigating food and nutrition science, public affairs, and communications. We are optimistic about the direction the APRE board is taking to advance understanding of the nutrition and health attributes of potatoes.”

About FoodMinds

FoodMinds, a division of Padilla, is a food and nutrition communications and consulting company that is boldly transforming the way the world thinks about food, nutrition and health. With offices in Chicago, Washington, DC, and San Francisco, FoodMinds expertly navigates science, public affairs and communications to create breakthrough strategies and help clients tell a better story. The firm has 35 employees, including 15 registered dietitians, and a global network of 40 nutrition affairs experts. Over the past year, it expanded its capabilities in Issues & Crisis Navigation and continued to grow its global footprint. The winner of the 2013 Holmes Report Boutique Agency of the Year and the 2012 Gold SABRE award in the public affairs category, FoodMinds is ranked in the top 5 U.S. independent food and beverage public relations firms by O’Dwyer’s. It was named a finalist for PRWeek’s 2015 Small Agency of the Year award and was cited by the 2014 Holmes World PR Report as one of the 10 fastest-growing U.S. PR companies. For more information, visit www.foodminds.com.

About APRE

The Alliance for Potato Research and Education (APRE) is a not-for-profit organization 100% dedicated to expanding and translating scientific research into evidence-based policy and education initiatives that recognize the role of all forms of the potato—a nutritious vegetable—in promoting health for all age groups. APRE is actively building the science foundation concerning the nutritional benefits of the white potato; creating partnerships with critical health professional organizations in the United States and Canada; and informing dietitians and health professionals by providing them with the latest scientific research and information on potato nutrition, consumption, and affordability. APRE is a National Strategic Partner with USDA MyPlate and a Produce for Better Health 2015 Champion. For more information, visit www.apre.org.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (July 11, 2016) – The Star Tribune publishes a weekly business column: Movers & Shakers, and Sean O’Brien, Padilla vice president of technology and innovation was recently interviewed.

The article discusses how Sean helps clients connect with audiences through digital strategies, what attracted him to work at Padilla and how brands can stay competitive marketing to millennials.

Read the full Q&A at startribune.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS – (June 29, 2016) Padilla has been recognized by the Star Tribune as one of the 2016 Top Workplaces in the Twin Cities, meeting the national standard set by WorkplaceDynamics. As part of the special section on workplace excellence, Padilla Chair and CEO Lynn Casey was interviewed for the article, ESOPs are one way to build employee loyalty.

The article discusses the benefits for companies that have organized under an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), which provides employees with a vested interest in the company’s success.

Padilla has been an ESOP for nearly 25 years.

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Media contact: [email protected]

NEW YORK (June 17, 2016) – Padilla has won two prestigious Silver Anvil Awards and one Bronze Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), considered to be among the highest honors in the public relations industry.

The Silver Anvils, which recognize strategic public relations practices and the highest standards of performance in the profession, were presented during the Silver Anvils Awards Ceremony on June 9 at the AXA Equitable Center in New York City. The Bronze Anvils celebrate outstanding tactics within public relations programs.

Padilla received its two Silver Anvil Awards for its work with Be The Match®, a nonprofit organization that matches patients with bone marrow donors, educates health care professionals and conducts research through its research program CIBMTR® (Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research®). The Silver Anvils were awarded for the following programs:

It’s On You: Inspiring the African American Community to Step Up and Save Lives
Multicultural Public Relations, Associations/Government/Nonprofit Organizations

For thousands of African Americans suffering from sickle cell disease and life-threatening blood cancers, finding a matched marrow donor can be the difference between life and death. Unfortunately, African Americans have the lowest odds of finding a match compared to any other racial and ethnic group. Padilla partnered with Be The Match in order to create a powerful call to action within the African American community. After a month-long awareness campaign, 400 African Americans stepped up to save lives by joining the Be The Match Registry®, a 40.7 percent increase from previous periods.

Inspiring Mothers to Donate Cord Blood and Give Patients Hope
Events and Observances — Seven Or Fewer Days — Nonprofit Organizations

For someone battling a life-threatening disease, such as leukemia or lymphoma, umbilical cord blood can be a critical source of potentially life-giving cells used in transplants. Be The Match partnered with Padilla to increase awareness among expectant parents of the importance of donating their babies’ cord blood. In order to garner attention for the cause, Padilla chose to leverage Mother’s Day as a way to share the stories of real cord blood donors and transplant recipients and debunk myths surrounding donations. The campaign resulted in critical attention for cord blood donation in 40 markets, generating 80 local media stories that overwhelmingly issued calls to action.

Padilla also won a Bronze Anvil Award in the brochure category for its work with Wilsonart and a Bronze Anvil Award of Commendation in the social media category for its work with the Center for Prevention at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

NEW YORK (June 8, 2016) – Fred Lake, a seasoned public relations practitioner with more than 30 years of experience in health care, has joined Padilla as senior vice president and leader of the agency’s Health Practice. He’s based in the agency’s New York office.

Most recently, Lake worked as a senior communications consultant for health care clients in Florida and South America. Prior to that, he served as executive vice president at Cooney/Waters Group, a boutique health care communications agency in New York.

While at Cooney/Waters, his clients included national nonprofit groups such as the American Lung Association, National Meningitis Association, Visiting Nurse Associations of America and National Foundation for Infectious Diseases. He also led major pharmaceutical campaigns for GlaxoSmithKline, Amgen, Alcon, Endo Pharmaceuticals and Sanofi Pasteur (the vaccines business of Sanofi).

“Health continues to be a strong growth area for Padilla. Fred’s experience in health care PR and marketing is an incredible asset to our expansion efforts in this sector,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “Fred has come in to lead a remarkable group of talented PR practitioners and strategists passionate about health care.”

Currently, Padilla works with a variety of health care clients including Bayer, Be The Match, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU and Mayo Clinic.

“I’m excited to be working with Padilla, which has a stellar reputation in health care PR and marketing,” Lake said. “With the agency’s strong capabilities in branding; creative design; digital; food, beverage and nutrition; corporate communications; crisis communications; and investor relations, we have tremendous opportunities for growth in the health care industries.”

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (June 6, 2016) – Heath Rudduck, Padilla chief creative officer, received a wake-up call from his daughter, which challenged him to make real connections, both personally and professionally, in our tech-obsessed world. You can read the Padilla-sponsored article, ‘Daddy, you love your phone more than me,’ on PRWeek.com.

As Chief Creative Officer for Padilla, Heath possesses a boundless passion for ideas fueled by the power of insights and woven into the fabric of consumers’ lives. From branded-content experiences, to user-generated social campaigns or focused B2B campaigns, Heath believes in creating immersive, engaging experiences that deliver results.

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Media contact: [email protected]

Extends firm’s food and beverage experience with addition of
award-winning food and nutrition strategists and consultants

MINNEAPOLIS (June 1, 2016) – Padilla and FoodMinds, LLC, an award-winning food and nutrition communications and consulting company, announced today that FoodMinds has been acquired by Padilla. Collectively, Padilla and FoodMinds create the third-largest food and beverage group in the country among independent agencies.

FoodMinds, headquartered in Chicago with offices in San Francisco and Washington, D.C., was founded in 2006 with the goal of helping food, nutrition and health clients engage in public dialogue and navigate the science, public affairs and communications landscape. The company’s clients include Nestlé, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) as a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, and Hass Avocado Board (HAB), the latter being served by both FoodMinds and Padilla. FoodMinds has received numerous awards including Boutique Agency of the Year in 2013 from The Holmes Report and was a finalist for the Small Agency of the Year award from PRWeek in 2015.

“We’ve identified food and beverage as one of our agency’s major growth opportunities, and FoodMinds brings talent and expertise that is a perfect complement to our existing team,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO.  “We’re thrilled that the FoodMinds team will be joining our 200 employee owners as we help clients build their brands and reputations.”

FoodMinds, which has 35 employees (including 14 registered dietitians), will operate as a division of Padilla and will leverage the agency’s expertise and resources in creative, digital, research, branding and crisis/critical issues communications. In addition, FoodMinds will collaborate on joint assignments with Padilla’s nationally recognized Food and Beverage Practice, which includes such clients as the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers and Wines from Rioja (Spain). FoodMinds founders Laura Cubillos, RD, Bill Layden and Sue Pitman, MA, RD will join Padilla’s leadership team as they continue to build the FoodMinds brand and presence in the marketplace.

Cubillos, Layden and Pitman said they are thrilled to have found a partner committed to helping FoodMinds embark on an important new chapter in the agency’s evolution. The two firms share similar approaches and cultures and together will bring exciting new opportunities to both clients and employees.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

About FoodMinds

Founded in 2006, Chicago-based FoodMinds, LLC (foodminds.com) is a food and nutrition communications and consulting company that is boldly transforming the way the world thinks about food, nutrition and health. FoodMinds expertly navigates science, public affairs and communications to create breakthrough strategies and help clients tell a better story. The firm has 35 employees, including 14 registered dietitians, and a global network of 40 nutrition affairs experts. Over the past year, it expanded its capabilities in Issues & Crisis Navigation, opened an office in San Francisco and continued to grow its global footprint. The winner of the 2013 Holmes Report Boutique Agency of the Year and the 2012 Gold SABRE award in the public affairs category, FoodMinds is ranked in the top 5 U.S. independent food and beverage public relations firms by O’Dwyer’s. It was named a finalist for PRWeek’s 2015 Small Agency of the Year award and was cited by the 2014 Holmes World PR Report as one of the 10 fastest-growing U.S. PR companies.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (May 24, 2016) – Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO, has been honored by Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal as part of its inaugural class of Most Admired CEOs. Out of 100 nominations received, 10 metro-area leaders were chosen based on their businesses’ track record of success, and their outstanding contributions to their industry and their community.

As CEO of one of the top 10 independent public relations and communications companies in the country, Lynn leads more than 200 employee owners in Minneapolis; New York; Richmond, Virginia; Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. She has helped transform the 100 percent employee-owned agency into a full-fledged integrated communications company with roots in public relations. In 2013, she dramatically increased the company’s size and scale by acquiring Richmond, Virginia-based CRT/tanaka. In 2015, the company’s acquisition of a brand strategy firm, Joe Smith Brand Consultancy, further enhanced the agency’s strategic offerings.

“Maintaining an employee-centric culture and a collaborative, community-minded spirit is key to our success,” Casey said. “I have the privilege of working with an amazing group of employee owners at Padilla, and I am honored to be in the company of my fellow nominees who make the Twin Cities a great place to live and work.”

Lynn chairs the Greater Twin Cities United Way board of directors, and serves as secretary of the University of Minnesota Foundation. Lynn was named Woman Business Executive of the Year by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal in 2011, inducted into the Junior Achievement Hall of Fame in 2011, and inducted into the Minnesota Business Hall of Fame in 2014. She’s the recent recipient of the Entrepreneur Alumna Award from the University of St. Thomas’ Opus College of Business in 2015.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

RICHMOND, Va. (May 19, 2016) – Mike Mulvihill, Padilla executive vice president and leader of the agency’s Corporate practice, has been honored with the 2016 Thomas Jefferson Award for Excellence in Public Relations from the Richmond chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA Richmond).

The award recognizes the achievement of a seasoned public relations practitioner in Central Virginia who has made an ongoing commitment to advancing the profession.

Previously, Mulvihill served as president of one of Padilla’s predecessor agencies, CRT/tanaka (founded as Carter Ryley Thomas). For more than three decades, he has worked with a wide range of clients including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, food commodity boards, colleges and universities, banks, professional services, nonprofits and high technology firms.

His work has received the public relations industry’s top awards from the Public Relations Society of America (Silver and Bronze Anvils), the International Association of Business Communicators (Gold Quill), The Holmes Report (SABRE Awards) and PRWeek Awards.

“I am humbled and surprised, knowing the many good people and fine practitioners who are past recipients of the Thomas Jefferson Award,” Mulvihill said. “I am honored to be considered worthy of inclusion in their company.”

Along with professional achievements, the Thomas Jefferson Award also recognizes senior PR professionals for their community involvement. For the past five years, Mulvihill has served as chairman of the advisory board for Virginia Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), which equips struggling communities with the capital, strategy and know-how to become places where people can thrive. Working with local leaders, Virginia LISC invests in housing, health, education, public safety and equipment.

Mike earned an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in public relations from the University of Dayton. He also is accredited in public relations (APR) by PRSA.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (May 3, 2016) – Padilla announces employee promotions across four of its offices.

Minneapolis

Bob McNaney was promoted from vice president to senior vice president in Padilla’s crisis consultancy. With a broadcast news background as an investigative journalist, he has a deep understanding of how the media operates in crisis-related situations and advising clients facing critical issues.

Brian Prentice was promoted from creative director to vice presidentin Padilla’s Creative Group. He is a seasoned strategist and designer, delivering elegant and creative design solutions for clients.

Carrie Young was promoted from senior director to vice president in Padilla’s Creative Group. She leads the agency’s Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota account and broadens Padillas engagement with existing clients.

Heidi Wight was promoted from director to senior director in Padilla’s Manufacturing Practice. She is a key team member of the Rockwell Automation, 3M and Panduit teams.

Amanda Abell was promoted from assistant account executive toaccount executive in Padilla’s Healthcare Practice. Her primary clients include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Be The Match and 3M Dental.

Kate Bissen was promoted from assistant account executive toaccount executive in Padilla’s Minnesota Team. She provides social media and media relations expertise to clients such as Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and Land O’ Lakes.

Len Pollard was promoted from assistant account executive toaccount executive in Padilla’s Manufacturing Practice. He brings strong project management skills to the Rockwell Software team.

Richmond

Kelsey Lewia was promoted from account executive to senior account executive in Padilla’s Healthcare Practice, where she provides counsel for clients such as Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and Mayo Clinic.

Luke Saunders was promoted from brand associate to brand strategist for Padilla’s brand consultancy Joe Smith. He manages programs for clients such as Chick-fil-A and GE.

New York

Stacy Moskowitz was promoted from director to senior director in Padilla’s Food and Beverage Practice, where she serves clients such as Hass Avocado Board.

Kirsten Lesak-Greenberg was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor in Padilla’s Healthcare Practice, where she oversees major campaigns for clients Be The Match and SeaSpine.

Laura Schultz was promoted from assistant account executive toaccount executive in Padilla’s Food and Beverage Practice, where she provides media relations support for clients including Coppertone, IDA Ireland and Wines from Rioja (Spain).

Washington, D.C.

Kim Blake was promoted from account supervisor to director in Padilla’s Healthcare Practice, where she serves clients such as Mayo Clinic and the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

Mike Nelson was promoted from senior account executive to account supervisor in Padilla’s Technology/B2B Practice. He develops brand building campaigns for clients Afton Chemical and Proto Labs, as well as financial services clients.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

Every year, PRWeek celebrates the best in the industry, and Padilla was honored to be named a Top 5 finalist in two competitive categories:

Multicultural Marketing Campaign of the Year

Padilla and Be The Match
It’s On You: Inspiring the African-American Community to Step Up and Save Lives

For thousands of African-Americans who suffer from sickle cell disease and life-threatening blood cancers, finding a matching bone marrow donor can be a matter of life and death. Unfortunately, African-Americans have the lowest odds of finding a match than any other racial and ethnic group.

Be The Match – the nonprofit charged with operating the national registry of volunteer marrow donors and matching them with patients – partnered with Padilla to raise awareness about this critical need during July, which is African-American Bone Marrow Awareness Month. Padilla and Be The Match launched “It’s On You,” a month-long awareness campaign and powerful call-to-action to people in the African-American community to step up and save lives.

Investor/Financial Communications Campaign of the Year

Padilla and Allianz
Shifting Structure of the Modern American Family Reveals New Challenges for Financial Security

Four out of five households no longer fit the mom/dad-married-with-kids mold. Today’s families come in many shapes and sizes and are caught between their unique needs and current financial realities. In fact, 76 percent of modern families fear they will run out of money in retirement. That startling revelation was just one of several news-making statistics that emerged from the LoveFamilyMoney study conducted by Allianz of America (Allianz) to answer the central question: How does America’s evolving family structure change people’s relationship with money and financial planning?

Allianz and Padilla dissected results of the massive 4,500-person study into key insights about the changing financial realities of the American family, and rolled out the revelations in phased, multi-media releases. The team carefully targeted top-tier media with the sequential news “nuggets,” each with engaging, easy-to-use infographics, and accompanied by social and digital content. The subsequent information was released in seven waves (the last in March 2015) and leveraged digital, social and traditional media channels to establish Allianz’s position as an innovative thought leader and market expert on the financial challenges faced by today’s American families.

Padilla was also a proud sponsor of the PR Education Program of the Year. Padilla managing director Greg Tarmin presented the award to Syracuse University’s Job Ready Day One program. The PRWeek Awards 2016 took place on Thursday, March 17 at Cipriani Wall Street, New York. Read more at prweek.com and take a peek at the black tie affair here.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (March 28, 2016) – Sean O’Brien has joined Padilla as vice president of technology and innovation, leading Padilla’s digital strategy, user experience and development teams from the agency’s Minneapolis headquarters.

Sean’s vast digital experience spans marketing and strategy, data science and analytics, app and web development and marketing technology. He has created successful digital platforms for several Fortune 500 brands including General Mills, Radisson, HealthPartners, Wells Fargo, Popeyes, Nestlé, Intel, Microsoft and General Motors. He most recently served as SVP of technology and innovation at Minneapolis-based Mithun Agency, where he led digital client engagements and supported new business opportunities for six years. Previously at New York City-based MRM Worldwide, he helped grow the agency’s Minneapolis digital creative shop into the largest in the Twin Cities.

“Padilla is continuing to enhance our digital expertise and offerings,” said Heath Rudduck, Padilla chief creative officer. “Sean brings an enormous amount of industry experience to the agency, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the team.”

Padilla CEO Lynn Casey added: “Sean’s talent and collaborative spirit make him a great fit for the agency. He brings superior digital strategy, creativity and innovation to our team.”

Sean’s recent notable achievements include winning Appy and Smartie mobile app awards, a Silver Anvil award from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and an IPG Diversity and Inclusion Award for Outstanding Achievement. In addition, Sean teaches a course in digital media and strategic communication at the University of Minnesota’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (February 9, 2016) – Padilla has been selected to work with The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) on a digital marketing campaign aimed at student recruitment. UAB is a public research university and medical center. It serves nearly 20,000 students and is the nation’s third largest public hospital.

“UAB is an outstanding university and a powerful economic engine for the city of Birmingham and the state of Alabama,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO. “It’s a time of great energy and momentum for UAB, and we’re thrilled to put our higher-education expertise to work with the campus and community partners to build even stronger connections with prospective students – in state and beyond.”

About UAB

UAB is a comprehensive urban university with a nationally recognized academic health center. UAB’s vision is to educate, advance discovery, care for the sick, respond to the needs of their community and establish Alabama as a progressive economic center that can change the world. More at uab.edu.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS (February 4, 2016) – Yanmar America Corporation has selected Padilla as its agency of record to increase awareness of and customer affinity for its agricultural equipment. Known for developing the world’s first commercially viable small diesel engine in 1933, today Yanmar manufactures industrial and marine engines, energy systems, generators, pumps and construction and agricultural equipment sold throughout the world. Padilla will plan and execute fully integrated marketing communications to raise Yanmar’s profile in the compact utility tractor market.

“We did extensive research to find an agency to help us build brand awareness of our compact utility tractors in the U.S.,” said Keith Wainwright, Agricultural Equipment Business Unit Manager. “It was clear that not only did Padilla understand our category, but they also had the kind of passion for their business that we have for ours. We’re a good match.”

“We are honored to be working with one of the truly inspiring and progressive engineering companies in the world,” said Lynn Casey, Padilla CEO.

About Yanmar America Corporation

Yanmar America Corporation, located in Adairsville, GA, is the regional headquarters of Yanmar Co., Ltd. a global company based in Osaka, Japan. Yanmar Co. Ltd., was established in 1912, and in 1933 became the world’s first manufacturer to develop a practical small diesel engine. Today, Yanmar is a recognized leader in the design and manufacturing of advanced performance diesel engines and diesel-powered equipment, as well as gas engine based energy systems. For more information, visit us.yanmar.com.

About Padilla

Padilla is a top 10 independent public relations and communications company comprised of 240 employee owners. Padilla builds, grows and protects brands worldwide by creating purposeful connections with the people who matter most through public relations, advertising, digital and social marketing, investor relations and brand strategy. Padilla includes the brand consultancy of Joe Smith, the food and nutrition experts at FoodMinds and the research authorities at SMS. Clients include 3M, Barnes & Noble Education, BASF, Bayer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, GE, Hass Avocado Board, Land O’Lakes, Mayo Clinic, Prosciutto di Parma, Rockwell Automation, U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the Virginia Lottery, Welch’s and Xcel Energy. Padilla is a founding member of The Worldcom Public Relations Group, a partnership of 143 independently owned partner offices in 115 cities on six continents. Make a connection at PadillaCo.com.

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Media contact: [email protected]