Insight Consulting Acquired by Four Communications

In London, marketing firm Four Communications Group has acquired public affairs and corporate communications agency Insight Consulting Group (ICG), whose services include market and competitor analysis and perception audits. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Founded by John Lehal (pictured) in 2006, ICG provides public policy advice for organisations and trade bodies in the healthcare, entertainment, professional services and third sectors, alongside services such as reputation management, market access, stakeholder management and corporate communications. ICG will move to Four's London Bridge HQ, rebrand as Four Public Affairs, and merge its team of 30 with Four's 20-strong public affairs team specialising in local government, regeneration, property and planning consultancy. Fee billing for the combined Public Affairs practice will be more than £5.5m.

Lehal will become CEO of the combined businesses and will sit on the Operating Board of Four Communications Group. Sarah Jones, currently a director at ICG and Ralph Scott, Practice Director at Four, will become deputy MDs of the new combined structure. Current Four Public Affairs MD, Karen Alcock, is leaving in the spring to 'pursue new opportunities'.

Commenting on the acquisition, Lehal said: 'As MD of Insight, I felt a strong sense of responsibility to find a partner agency that provides the best possible fit for our staff and clients. With organisations facing considerable political uncertainty and regulatory risks in the years ahead, we look forward to working with new and existing clients to build their political reputation, maximise commercial opportunities and create compelling campaigns'.

Web sites: www.fourcommunications.com and www.weareicg.com .