Matt Neale
Matt Neale is the CEO of Golin Ketchum, the merged entity formed from the combination of Golin and Ketchum in 2026, two of the most storied names in global public relations. As the architect of this landmark merger, Neale is leading the integration of two distinct agency cultures and capabilities into a unified communications powerhouse designed to compete at the highest levels of earned media, brand reputation, and integrated marketing services. His leadership represents a significant consolidation moment in the PR and communications industry. Neale previously served as CEO of Golin, the IPG-owned global PR agency known for its 'Relevance' model and data-driven approach to communications. During his tenure at Golin, he championed the agency's evolution beyond traditional PR into a more integrated communications partner, emphasizing the intersection of earned media with paid and owned channels — a philosophy increasingly relevant in the modern AdTech and MarTech ecosystem. He has been a consistent voice on the transformation of the communications industry in the face of digital disruption. With over two decades in the communications and marketing services industry, Neale has worked across multiple markets and disciplines, giving him a global perspective on brand communications. His work sits at the intersection of PR, advertising, and technology, making him a notable figure in conversations about how earned media fits within the broader programmatic and data-driven marketing landscape.
Last updated Jul 10, 2026 by ATDb automated enrichment · Connections updated Jul 13, 2026
- Years in industry
- 25 years
Bio
Matt Neale is the CEO of Golin Ketchum, the merged entity formed from the combination of Golin and Ketchum in 2026, two of the most storied names in global public relations. As the architect of this landmark merger, Neale is leading the integration of two distinct agency cultures and capabilities into a unified communications powerhouse designed to compete at the highest levels of earned media, brand reputation, and integrated marketing services. His leadership represents a significant consolidation moment in the PR and communications industry. Neale previously served as CEO of Golin, the IPG-owned global PR agency known for its 'Relevance' model and data-driven approach to communications. During his tenure at Golin, he championed the agency's evolution beyond traditional PR into a more integrated communications partner, emphasizing the intersection of earned media with paid and owned channels — a philosophy increasingly relevant in the modern AdTech and MarTech ecosystem. He has been a consistent voice on the transformation of the communications industry in the face of digital disruption. With over two decades in the communications and marketing services industry, Neale has worked across multiple markets and disciplines, giving him a global perspective on brand communications. His work sits at the intersection of PR, advertising, and technology, making him a notable figure in conversations about how earned media fits within the broader programmatic and data-driven marketing landscape.
Career
CEO
Golin · 2019-2026
President, Global Clients & Markets
Golin · 2016-2019
CEO, Europe
Golin · 2013-2016
Expertise & education
Expertise
Speaking topics
Recognition
Notable achievements
- Led the merger of Golin and Ketchum in 2026, creating one of the largest combined PR agencies in the world
- Transformed Golin into a data-driven communications agency through the proprietary 'Relevance' model
- Expanded Golin's global footprint and integrated earned media capabilities with broader marketing services