Strategic communications consultancy has appointed Tess O'Brien as Group Account Director.

The firm specialises in media, marketing, entertainment, tech, and executive reputation. O'Brien brings over 14 years of experience in strategic communications, having worked on landmark developments and with global real estate brands and architectural projects across New York, London, and Sydney.

Prior to joining SKMG, O'Brien led external communications for Sotheby's International Realty. Her extensive portfolio includes collaborations with industry leaders such as JLL, DeSimone Consulting Engineers, Fosun International, London Square, Zaha Hadid Architects, Costa Navarino, and CallisonRTKL.

At SKMG, O'Brien will spearhead a new property, architecture, and urban development portfolio. This new division will focus on reputation management, stakeholder engagement, and establishing earned authority within the property and built environment sector.

Co-founder of SKMG, Andrew Knowles, said: "Tess is a force. We are delighted to have her join the team and look forward to the next chapter of SKMG, bringing our thinking and execution to developers, architects, real estate brands and the broader built environment sector."

Neil Shoebridge, also a co-founder of SKMG, said: "Tess’s appointment is a big statement of intent. She brings new depth, experience and skills to the team and will be central to unlocking a new era of growth for the business."

O'Brien said: "There’s so much opportunity in the APAC property space for smarter, sharper communication. From major public developments to future-focused engineering and design, property stories touch all of us. SKMG has a unique ability to cut through noise with work that’s strategic and effective. I’m thrilled to be part of what’s next."