#United States #New York #Ruder Finn #PRWeek #Kathy Bloomgarden

Kathy Bloomgarden Inducted into PRWeek Hall of Fame 2025

In a momentous announcement, Dr. Kathy Bloomgarden, the CEO of Ruder Finn, has been honored as a 2025 PRWeek Hall of Fame Inductee. This prestigious recognition celebrates outstanding contributions to the public relations industry and is one of the highest honors within the sector. Since its inception in 2013, the Hall of Fame has acknowledged PR pioneers who have made significant impacts through vision and leadership.

Dr. Bloomgarden’s role as a technology-driven visionary has been pivotal to Ruder Finn's evolution and growth. Her commitment to reinvention is not only reflected in the agency's achievements but also sets a new benchmark for communication practices today. Operating under the belief encapsulated in her motto, 'What's Next,' Bloomgarden strategically pivots to look forward, exploring emerging trends rather than dwelling on the past.

For instance, when OpenAI introduced ChatGPT, Ruder Finn was already ahead of the curve, creating strategies with industry trailblazers to establish AI-ready data infrastructures. They tackled challenges related to large language model (LLM) hallucinations and sought to connect East and West in AI innovation. Under her leadership, the RF AI Advisory Council was launched, featuring prominent figures like the former Go-To-Market head at OpenAI, to prep clients for navigating this evolving AI landscape. Additionally, she spearheaded the development of rf.aio, a groundbreaking tool that optimizes LLM responses on a large scale for various brands.

In line with fostering innovation, Bloomgarden has also established internal innovation engines, such as rf.TechLab and rf.Studio53, geared towards employing AI-powered tools to derive deeper insights. This initiative enables the creation of more impactful content for clients, solidifying Ruder Finn's standing as an essential ally for global brands managing complexity in uncertain economic climates, geopolitical tensions, and rapid technological advancements.

Bloomgarden's strategic approach hasn’t just focused on technological evolution but has also emphasized bold global expansion. Recently, Ruder Finn completed the acquisition of ERA Communications, enhancing its leadership footprint throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Over the past five years, the agency has broadened its reach by acquiring seven companies domestically and three international firms, thus amplifying its capacity to offer fully integrated communications solutions worldwide.

One of the hallmarks of Bloomgarden’s leadership is her cultivation of a unique “What’s Next” culture within Ruder Finn that prioritizes agility, champions innovation, and fosters the development of emerging talent. Her passion for mentoring has not only influenced budding professionals but is also instrumental in shaping the future of the PR field.

Reflecting on her achievements with humility, Bloomgarden expressed her gratitude for this recognition, especially during such a pivotal period for the communications industry. “During times of rapid change, I’ve always believed in encouraging people to stretch towards the future by embracing transformation and expanding their vision of what’s possible,” she stated. “This honor acknowledges our accomplishments at Ruder Finn and emphasizes our ongoing commitment to a future-focused approach.”

The 2025 PRWeek Hall of Fame ceremony is set to take place in New York on November 20, marking a significant highlight in the PR calendar.

About Ruder Finn

Ruder Finn stands as one of the world's largest independent global communications and integrated marketing agencies. With a history dating back to 1948, it has played a pivotal role in defining public relations for over 75 years, guiding industry-leading brands, firms, and leaders from their current landscapes to future possibilities. The agency's enterprise strategy is built around five core domains: Healthcare, Technology, Consumer Brand, Leadership, and Workplace. Ruder Finn also boasts innovative tech-related initiatives, including RF TechLab, which provides cutting-edge predictive modeling, and RF Studio53, which serves as a creative hub driven by advanced technologies. With offices strategically located across the globe—including the U.S., Asia, Europe, and the Middle East—Ruder Finn remains committed to innovative and impactful public relations practices.