Ruder Finn Expands Digital Integration Group with Two Senior Hires in Social and Influencer Strategy
Ruder Finn has announced the addition of two senior leaders to its Digital Integration Group (RF DIG), reinforcing its investment in influencer and social strategy amid a period of industry recognition and transformation.
Sara Record joins the firm as Senior Vice President, Social & Influencer Strategy, while Annie Highfield steps into the role of Group Vice President, Social & Influencer Strategy. Both will report to Eric Petersen, EVP and Head of Digital, who joined the agency in late 2024.
The hires come just months after Ruder Finn earned the top spot in the January 2025 Public Relations rankings. The rankings reflect a shift in the communications sector, with firms based outside of New York and Los Angeles gaining prominence. Ruder Finn’s return to number one emphasizes the continued value of cross-sector expertise and global operations.
“I’m thrilled to welcome both Sara and Annie to the Digital Integration Group at Ruder Finn,” said Petersen. “They bring a depth of diverse, and data-driven experience to the team which is increasingly important as more clients are prioritizing these strategies in their plans to address shifting consumer behaviors.”
Record, based in Orange County, CA, brings over 15 years of experience spanning healthcare, pharma, and inclusive marketing. Her background includes integrating influencer partnerships in highly regulated industries. “I believe in the power of authentic storytelling—paired with data and audience insights—to create content that truly connects,” Record said. “Influencer marketing continues to evolve beyond one-off posts toward sustained, community-driven engagement.”
Highfield, based in Louisville, KY, brings 13 years of marketing experience with global consumer brands, most recently as Head of Social and Influencer at KFC’s U.S. division. “What drew me in was the opportunity to be a part of the incredibly talented Digital Integration Group—partners who share my passion for building brands that show up meaningfully in culture,” said Highfield.
Ruder Finn, headquartered in New York, continues to prioritize integrated digital strategy as a core component of its growth, reflecting broader industry momentum toward influencer-driven engagement.
