DETROIT — Franco Public Relations Group today announced the appointment of Tina Kozak to executive vice president and chief operating officer. Kozak was previously senior vice president. This newly created position will support the firm’s continued expansion and growth.
Kozak, 33, also joins Franco CEO Daniel Ponder and President Maria Leonhauser as a shareholder in the agency. Franco is a closely held company.
“Tina has consistently demonstrated strong leadership skills, particularly in the area of business development and service excellence,” said Ponder. “Last year we had our best performance since 2007, the year Tina joined our firm. We look to her to support our continued growth, particularly as we prepare to celebrate 50 years as a Detroit-based agency.”
“I am passionate about Franco and ready to take on the role of a shareholder and the additional responsibility for the agency’s operations,” said Kozak. “We have an amazing team, and our success is a result of each member’s commitment to excellence for our clients. I look forward to inspiring excellence and continued success in my new role.”
In her new role, Kozak is responsible for business development, including expanding into other service areas; talent and client retention, and client service. She will continue to provide strategic oversight of key accounts.
Kozak’s expertise is in planning and executing integrated communications programs, particularly in the corporate and B2B area. Her scope includes marketing, brand development, media and community relations, social media and crisis/reputation management.
“Tina consistently provides strong strategic and creative thinking processes that ensure our clients receive excellent service,” said Leonhauser. “Our industry is rapidly changing and it’s not enough to keep pace with change; we must lead. In her new position, Tina will reinforce our leadership commitment, our excellence and our culture.
Kozak joined Franco as an account manager in 2007. Previously, she served as corporate communications manager for global auto supplier Metaldyne. She holds a bachelor of arts with a dual major in public relations and Spanish from Wayne State University. Kozak is a graduate of the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Leadership Detroit Class. She is an active member of the Automotive Press Association and Detroit Economic Club, and serves on the PR Advisory Council for the Detroit Regional News Hub and the Detroit Regional Chamber’s PR Advisory Committee.
She resides in Grosse Pointe Park with her husband and two daughters.
