Ankura Expands Its Influence by Acquiring Red Flag Global for Advanced Strategic Communications
Ankura Consulting Group, LLC, a leading global expert services and advisory firm, recently made headlines by acquiring Red Flag Global, an award-winning agency renowned for its expertise in strategic communications and public affairs. This strategic move aims to enhance Ankura's ability to navigate the intricate landscape of business and policy that organizations face today.
The acquisition, announced on February 6, 2025, solidifies Ankura's standing as a frontrunner in providing comprehensive solutions tailored to meet the complex challenges of clients across various industries. According to Ankura's Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Lavin, Red Flag's unique capabilities in campaign management and public affairs ideally match Ankura's multidisciplinary approach, which emphasizes delivering transformative results where it matters the most.
Founded in 2013, Red Flag Global has established itself with offices in significant financial and political hubs, including Washington, DC, Brussels, London, Dublin, and Cape Town. The agency specializes in crafting innovative strategies that allow top organizations to effectively communicate, strategize, and maximize their influence in global markets. By joining Ankura’s Global Strategic Advisory business, which already includes other prominent firms like McLarty Associates and GreenPoint, Red Flag will offer an even broader range of solutions that tackle today's most pressing challenges.
Fernando Batlle, Head of Global Strategic Advisory at Ankura, emphasized the transformative potential of this merger. He stated, "By pooling Red Flag's full spectrum of strategic communications capabilities with our own expertise in geopolitical and operational contexts, we can offer clients uniquely tailored strategies that leverage market insights into actionable decisions."
Red Flag Global's founder, Karl Brophy, expressed enthusiasm for the union, highlighting their successful track record of anticipating critical moments for clients that require prompt and decisive action. His team’s ability to provide strategic responses to emerging challenges will be a vital asset within Ankura's expansive suite of services.
Ankura Consulting Group is driven by a commitment to managing complex issues related to conflict, risk, strategy, and transformation. With a diverse team of over 2,000 professionals serving clients across more than 55 countries, Ankura tailors solutions aimed at Protecting, Creating, and Recovering Value™. This approach complements Red Flag's established model, which focuses on developing winning strategies for major corporations, industry associations, and advocacy groups worldwide.
This acquisition not only enhances Ankura’s capabilities but also reflects an evolving market where organizations are increasingly reliant on strategic communications to navigate reputation and policy influence. As businesses prioritize agility and responsiveness amid a rapidly changing global landscape, Ankura's enhanced offerings could position it as an indispensable partner for entities seeking to thrive in an interconnected world.
In conclusion, the acquisition of Red Flag Global marks a significant step for Ankura Consulting Group in its mission to deliver exceptional advisory services. With both firms committed to improving their clients' strategic communications and public affairs efforts, this combination is poised to create unparalleled value in the market.