GSR is an agency specialising in counter-crisis management, thought leadership, and global strategies. Based in Washington, DC and Los Angeles, California, GSR has served multiple Fortune 100 companies, large philanthropic organisations and some of the most high-profile individuals around the world.

GSR is led by U.S. and international affairs experts Brett Bruen and Johanna Maska. Bruen is a former diplomat and held the position of Director of Global Engagement at the Obama White House, spearheading a number of the President's international initiatives. Maska worked with President Obama for more than eight years, serving as Director of Press Advance in the White House, managing his most high-stakes engagements and playing a critical role on two successful presidential campaigns.

Blakeney’s Managing Partner, Michael Pooley, said the partnership reflects the joint philosophy of both consultancies in supporting clients through today’s most difficult issues.

“It was clear when we first met that we shared a common view that companies needed a different approach to solve their complex communication challenges. Having such an experienced and connected team in North America has already proved valuable for our clients and we look forward to working with Brett and the team to increase our impact on both sides of the Atlantic.”

Founder and President of GSR, Brett Bruen, welcomed the new partnership with Blakeney.

“Crises are not constrained by continents. Opportunities are increasingly opening abroad. We have found in Blakeney a team that is able to seamlessly sync with our approach to nuanced navigation through today’s upheaval and unprecedented disruptions. By fusing together our insights and innovations, clients are now able to truly benefit from the best of both extraordinary firms.”