Sandpiper expands China footprint with North Head acquisition

Sandpiper Communications has bolstered its footprint in China with the acquisition of North Head, a Beijing-based public affairs and strategic communications consultancy. 

With offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong, Sandpiper Communications already is active in the Greater China market. The firm supports its clients – companies in the health, technology, financial services, consumer goods, energy and professional services sectors – with a range of communications, public relations and corporate affairs services.

Over the past years, Sandpiper Communications worked together with North Head on multiple occasions for the delivery of services to China-based clients, and on the back of the successful tandem, the two firms have now joined forces.

Emma Smith, the Chief Executive of Sandpiper Communications explained: “North Head has been a long-term partner to our business, and after many years of friendship I am thrilled to officially welcome their wonderful team to our family. Our offerings are incredibly complementary, and the acquisition will strengthen our Greater China presence.” 

The deal will see the China business renamed as Sandpiper North Head, with North Head Managing Director John Russell appointed to Managing Director of the new entity. “Having successfully and happily worked together with the Sandpiper team over the years on various clients, I am excited with this development.” 

“This is a win-win move, with many synergies given the complementary profiles and strengths of Sandpiper and North Head. The outcomes will be a stronger offering to our clients and enhanced opportunities for all our employees,” he added. 

The acquisition – Sandpiper’s first since it was founded in 2019 – will see the entire North Head team (including seniors Robert Magyar and Joyce Li) cross to Sandpiper North Head, which launches with a team of around 25 professionals. 

Meanwhile, North Head’s specialist expertise and experience in government and public affairs will be rolled out across Sandpiper’s other offices in Singapore and Sydney. “North Head’s experience will bring a deeper perspective to our expertise in these areas,” said Smith.