In response to significant shifts within the public relations and communications industry, seasoned agency executives from WPP have established Oakton Communications Partners. This Chicago-based firm emerges as a timely solution, bridging the growing divide between a dynamic and challenging market and top-tier agency professionals seeking collaborative ventures.
Founded this month by Kevin Bubel, previously EVP and MD at BCW, Oakton Communications Partners is strategically positioned to address critical areas for businesses today: purpose, corporate reputation at the highest levels of leadership, and navigating change to achieve tangible commercial results. The agency’s core philosophy centers on providing experienced counsel and senior-level guidance to clients.
Oakton Communications Partners offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet the complex needs of modern organizations. These include leadership strategy, data-driven research, compelling narrative development and storytelling, reputation and crisis management, change management strategies, corporate communications, thought leadership initiatives, market strategy development, and executive support. Detailed information on their offerings is available on the firm’s website.
A key differentiator for Oakton is its innovative business model, which delivers these high-level services at a more accessible price point compared to traditional agencies where its partners previously held leadership roles. This approach is particularly relevant in the current economic climate, as highlighted in a company statement.
“The reality of today’s marketplace is that highly experienced professionals can face challenges in securing new roles. Oakton embraces this, recognizing the inherent value in experience and the significant contribution that seasoned leaders bring to the table,” stated Bubel.
He further elaborated on the industry dynamics, “If entry-level positions are perceived to be at risk from AI advancements, and senior roles are seen as impacting profit margins for large holding companies, the industry faces a critical juncture. This is especially true when clients are increasingly seeking counsel from experienced, senior-level advisors.”
Based in Chicago, Oakton’s network of partners comprises former senior leaders predominantly from WPP, spanning both the Midwest and coastal regions.
Bubel emphasizes that Oakton’s strength lies in its team of partners, many of whom are alumni of WPP, particularly in light of the recent merger between two of its largest communication agencies, BCW and Hill & Knowlton, to form Burson earlier this year. The initial Oakton team of four includes notable figures such as Eric Benderoff, former SVP at BCW and founder of Benderoff Communications, as well as former executives from WPP’s PSB and BCW consultancies.
Kevin Bubel, founder of PR Partners Oakton, bringing extensive experience from WPP and BCW to lead the new communications agency.
The launch of Oakton Communications Partners also comes amid broader industry consolidation. The recent announcement of Omnicom Group’s planned acquisition of Interpublic Group, a major competitor, is expected to lead to further industry restructuring. Leaders at smaller agencies anticipate that these large-scale mergers could create opportunities for mid-sized and boutique firms.
Adding to the industry flux, Edelman recently implemented layoffs affecting 330 positions, including senior and long-tenured staff, signaling a period of adjustment across the communications landscape.
Echoing sentiments shared by leaders of other independent communications firms, Bubel believes that Oakton’s independence from a holding company structure will create expanded opportunities for its partners and clients alike. Oakton is actively engaging with potential clients and seeking to expand its network of partners. The agency operates on a collaborative model, enabling senior leaders who have established their own independent practices to collaborate with Oakton on projects and larger client engagements.
“Oakton is equipped to function like any traditional agency in terms of client acquisition, service delivery, and client management. However, our distinct advantage is that we operate exclusively with senior-level professionals who bring a depth of expertise and strategic insight that is unparalleled,” Bubel explained. “While conventional agencies face economic pressures that limit their ability to staff client accounts solely with senior personnel, Oakton’s model is built on this very premise. From a client perspective, this represents a significant value proposition.”
Prior to establishing Oakton Communications Partners, Bubel held the position of EVP and MD at BCW for 14 years, where he spearheaded the firm’s inaugural C-suite focused business transformation practice. His departure from BCW in late 2023 was a result of organizational restructuring.
Bubel’s extensive industry background also includes roles as Global Director and Head of Corporate Internal Communications at Mars, Director and Head of Asia-Pacific Communications for Avon Cosmetics, Senior Manager of Corporate Communications at Cathay Pacific Airways, and News Desk Editor at The Wall Street Journal, showcasing a diverse and robust career trajectory that informs his leadership at Pr Partners Oakton.
