Strata has appointed Phil Staines as chief of staff, a newly created role that will see Staines assist the agency with strategy development, organisational structure and process, and continued expansion plans.

Staines, who has vast live events and agency experience, will work closely with the Strata board, helping the agency to shape, prioritise and execute strategic business initiatives, including acquisitions and proposition development.

Formerly Chief of Staff at brand experience agency FIRST, Staines has also held roles at BCD Meetings and Events and Grass Roots.

He will report directly to Simon Hambley, CEO of Strata, who said: “Phil joins Strata at an incredibly exciting time. He will be working on a variety of tasks, helping us to achieve our ambitious business goals and ensuring slick communication and collaboration across the Strata portfolio and all departments.

“Phil’s skill set complements the wider Strata team. I am looking forward to seeing how he can work with the board and push us on our journey, ensuring optimal performance at all times by supporting colleagues, applying critical thinking and inspiring effective decision-making.”

Staines added: “I am thrilled to be joining Strata at this exciting juncture, in what promises to be a real time of change and innovation for the events industry. One of the things I admired most about Strata is the exceptional reputation it has, which is driven by a truly passionate team. You don’t often get a chance to work with great people, who want to do some great things, so I am excited to get going.”

Staines appointment follows the recent appointment of Kevin Robinson as group head of strategic accounts.