Former Gap Brand Communication Director Expands APCO's Reach to San Francisco, Strengthens Consumer Marketing Expertise

San Francisco (December 15, 2010) - Cherie Stewart, former senior director of corporate communications for Gap Brand, joins APCO Worldwide as a senior vice president and managing director of the company's new San Francisco office, founder and CEO Margery Kraus announced today.

"Cherie brings more than 20 years of experience in corporate reputation management, consumer marketing and crisis communication in the Bay Area, and we are delighted that she will be leading APCO's own growth in San Francisco," said Kraus. "Her proven ability to develop and execute results-driven communication strategies that support dynamic company business plans and objectives will be sure to benefit our diverse set of clients and complement the strengths of the worldwide APCO team."

Stewart led communication programs for well-known consumer brands such as Gap Inc., Gap Brand, Old Navy, LeapFrog Enterprises, Pure Digital/Flip Camera and Peet's Coffee & Tea. At the Gap Brand, she provided executive communication counsel and strategic support to the senior leadership team and integrated and aligned de-centralized company communication efforts. At LeapFrog Enterprises, Stewart oversaw all corporate, crisis, financial and internal communication. She also developed and executed creative and impactful product launches that led to extensive coverage in high-profile outlets including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Today Show and Good Morning America.

Stewart gained significant agency experience earlier in her career, where she supported consumer and consumer tech clients at Weber Shandwick, Wilson McHenry Company and Cunningham Communications.

"I am thrilled to join APCO's global team and provide industry-leading service in strategic public affairs, corporate reputation management and marketing communication to the San Francisco market," Stewart said.

APCO's San Francisco office will open in early 2011.

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About APCO Worldwide

Founded in 1984, APCO Worldwide is an award-winning, independently owned global communication consultancy with offices in major cities throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., APCO clients include corporations and governments; industry associations and nonprofit organizations; and seven of the top 10 companies on Fortune's Global 500. APCO offers services related to business, industry and finance; media, public opinion and society; and government and public policy. The firm is a majority women-owned business. For more information, please visit www.apcoworldwide.com.

Contact:
Elizabeth Wolf
202.778.1470
ewolf@apcoworldwide.com