Former News UK and BBDO executive joins Cognito board

LONDON, 4 November 2015 – Cognito, the specialist communications consultancy for the financial services industry, has appointed Mike Almandras as its new Finance Director and Company Secretary. Almandras has been a driving force in ensuring some of the most respected agency brands and publishing companies adapt to new models in marketing and communications.

Almandras most recently held a senior position at News UK, and was formerly with agency network BBDO and Condé Nast. He originally trained at KPMG.

Based in London, Almandras will work with Cognito’s board and management in New York, London and Singapore to support the company’s evolution. He is also responsible for managing the finance team and for IT and HR. He will act as a single point of commercial advice, helping to develop the most effective structures for Cognito services and clients.

Tom Coombes, CEO, commented: “Our industry is changing and clients’ expectations from their partners are evolving rapidly. Cognito is making sure that we are an agency built for the future, and Mike brings diverse experience in finance and accounting from companies that have undergone transformations in a fast paced digital landscape. His agency, marketing and publishing work are all highly relevant. We welcome him on board at an exciting time for the company.”

Mike Almandras added: “Cognito is a dynamic and well-respected communications consultancy with a compelling story. I am thrilled to have joined the team and look forward to contributing to Cognito’s ambitions for the next level of the firm’s development.”