PR agency undergoes change of ownership

PR and communications agency Nielsen McAllister has announced a change of ownership.

Bob Bushby, founder of the Derby firm, which was recently named as one of the top 50 business-to-business agencies outside London, has handed over the reins of the business to fellow directors Simon Wildash and Simon Kinnear.

The deal marks the culmination of a succession plan that was first put into place in 2018 to ensure the continued growth and success of Nielsen McAllister, which was founded in 1990.

Simon Wildash becomes managing director with Simon Kinnear as his co-director.

Bob has accepted the position of chairman, a role in which he will provide both strategic advice and guidance for the agency and continue to support and work across its client base.

Both Simons have extensive ties with Nielsen McAllister.

Simon Wildash previously worked for the agency’s client Essentra, while Simon Kinnear rejoined in 2021 after having first worked with Bob between 2002 and 2011.

Nielsen McAllister specialises in business-to-business PR and communications, helping companies in sectors as diverse as print and packaging, logistics, software and pharmaceuticals with content creation, social media and marketing strategy.

In a joint statement, the new owners said: “Bob has grown Nielsen McAllister over 34 years into an agency with a superb reputation, both among the businesses we work with and the editors and journalists who cover our clients’ news.

“It’s the best possible foundation for us and our brilliant team to build upon.”

Bob said: “The two Simons know Nielsen McAllister inside-out and its future could not be in better hands. I look forward to working with them in my new role.”