Ruder Finn Rolls CSR Experience Into a New Practice

NEW YORK, June 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Ruder Finn, Inc., one of the world's largest independent communications firms, today announces the launch of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practice. The practice will be led by SVP Sarah Coles and based out of a new company hub in Boston. 

Ruder Finn already boasts an impressive roster of clients in the CSR space, such as PepsiCo's Dream Machine program for recycling; the Novartis Coartem Malaria Initiative, which provides malaria treatments to developing countries at cost, and Ruder Finn China chairs an impressive CSR program at Tsinghua University aimed at contributing to academic debate and building business leadership skills by collaborating between public and private sectors.  The company's digital agency, RFI Studios, won a Webby Award for the CSR work done by Liz Claiborne's "Love is Not Abuse" campaign, a program dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence and teen dating abuse.

"We looked at the capabilities we already provide in the CSR space and saw a real need and demand from companies. This inspired us to roll our CSR experience into an exciting new practice," says CEO Kathy Bloomgarden. "CSR should not be seen as an afterthought but, rather, integrated into the core of a company's values and best practices.  Further, an integrated CSR program that leverages the business' core competencies is more likely to build trust and relationships with consumers." 

Through many years of experience, Ruder Finn has gained a deep understanding of the changing CSR landscape, particularly the importance of linking CSR to consumer behaviors.  According to Ruder Finn's CSR Index, the social responsibility performance of many corporations influences consumer perceptions, as well as possible purchasing decisions. In fact, around two thirds (68.7% and 62.9% respectively) would refuse to buy, or would reduce their purchase of, products from companies with bad CSR performance.

"Our CSR practice is not just about helping companies do good deeds but about using core competencies to create a movement, influence others to improve their business practices and inspire change." said Sarah Coles, SVP, who will lead the practice. "Ruder Finn understands the importance of being socially responsible while being a productive business, and we are excited to use our experiences to further our offerings in the CSR space."

"To us, CSR is an underlying element of a corporation's principles, goals and contribution to society," says Kathy Bloomgarden. "CSR is about trust, loyalty and integrity:  trust in understanding that practicing CSR is ultimately good for the company and good for the world, loyalty to a brand and to doing business with a company that incorporates CSR into its daily business, and integrity that inspires confidence in management and the company's leadership to create a better future."

About Ruder Finn (www.ruderfinn.com)

Ruder Finn, Inc. is a leading communications, counseling and services agency with more than 65 years' experience.  The Ruder Finn Group maintains offices in, New York, London, Paris, Beijing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Singapore.  The agency services the global and local communications needs of more than 250 corporations and nonprofit organizations.  Ruder Finn is organized around four strategic pillars that reflect its key areas of leadership: Health & Wellness, Corporate & Public Trust, Technology & Innovation and Consumer Connections.  Expertise includes corporate reputation management, branding, cultural and social issues, and intent-driven social media through our full-service digital practices RFI Studios.

Contact:  Katy Kelley
Vice President
212-593-6394
[email protected]

SOURCE Ruder Finn, Inc.