Sydney-based health PR agency, Palin Communications, has announced several developments among its senior team, including the appointment of its first ever Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Karina Durham has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer, stepping up after over two years as General Manager at the agency. Karina has worked with a wide range of clients in the pharmaceutical, not-for-profit, medical technology, health service and nutrition sectors with over 15 years in the industry.

Managing Director and Co-Founder of Palin Communications, Martin Palin, said he was delighted at Karina’s progress and continued impact on the business: "So much of what Palin Communications has become in recent years has been driven by the energetic leadership of Karina. The culture, people, client service and day-to-day experience of the talented folk who work here are largely a function of Karina’s vision for this agency. This promotion recognises Karina’s executive level influence on the business and her development as an industry leader in the Australian communications sector."

Senior Management Team members Maya Ivanovic and Joni Thomes have also been promoted, with Maya taking up the newly created position of Associate Director: Client Services, focussing on innovation and programme outcomes, while Joni is appointed Associate Director: People and Culture.

Co-Chair of the Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA) Young Guns committee, Anastasiia Nazarenko, has also been promoted to the role of Senior Account Manager.