Ankura expands global strategic advisory services with Red Flag global acquisition

Ankura Consulting Group, LLC, a leading global expert services and advisory firm, has announced the acquisition of Red Flag Global, a strategic communications and public affairs agency known for its award-winning work with some of the world’s most influential organisations. This acquisition, announced on February 6, 2025, represents a pivotal move in Ankura’s strategy to strengthen its global footprint and enhance its strategic communications solutions for clients navigating complex business, regulatory, and geopolitical landscapes.

The deal will see Red Flag Global integrated into Ankura’s Global Strategic Advisory business, which already houses firms like McLarty Associates—renowned for commercial diplomacy—and GreenPoint, a U.S.–China strategic advisory powerhouse. This consolidation aims to provide clients with an even broader range of services, from public affairs expertise to commercial diplomacy, equipping them with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly volatile global environment.

Ankura’s growth strategy: Enhancing strategic communications capabilities

Ankura’s acquisition of Red Flag Global aligns with its broader strategy to expand its advisory capabilities. The move is not just about geographical expansion; it reflects Ankura’s commitment to providing holistic solutions that address the intersection of business, politics, and global affairs. With this acquisition, Ankura strengthens its ability to help clients manage risks, seize opportunities, and communicate effectively in markets where public perception and regulatory scrutiny can directly impact business outcomes.

Kevin Lavin, Chief Executive Officer of Ankura, highlighted the strategic fit between the two firms. He noted that Red Flag Global’s expertise in public affairs expertise, strategic communications, and campaign management complements Ankura’s multidisciplinary approach. According to Lavin, Red Flag’s team, composed of professionals from diverse backgrounds in business, politics, diplomacy, media, and digital communications, will play a critical role in driving measurable results for clients worldwide.

What Red Flag Global brings to Ankura’s advisory portfolio

Founded in 2013, Red Flag Global has established itself as a leader in strategic communications, with offices in key political and economic hubs such as Washington, DC; Brussels; London; Dublin; and Cape Town. The firm specialises in helping clients anticipate and respond to what it terms “red flag moments”—critical junctures where swift, strategic action can mitigate risks or unlock new opportunities.

Red Flag’s capabilities span strategic communications, public affairs, and campaign management. Their approach is rooted in deep industry knowledge, political insight, and a proactive stance on emerging risks. This makes them an ideal partner for Ankura, whose clients often face multifaceted challenges that require integrated solutions across business strategy, regulatory affairs, and stakeholder engagement.

Fernando Batlle, Head of Global Strategic Advisory at Ankura, emphasised that the acquisition will allow Ankura to offer a more differentiated approach to client challenges. “By combining Red Flag’s full-spectrum strategic communications solutions with our expertise in geopolitical analysis, commercial diplomacy, and operational advisory, we’re positioning ourselves to deliver transformative outcomes for clients navigating complex environments,” Batlle said.

Why this acquisition matters in today’s global landscape

The acquisition of Red Flag Global comes at a time when businesses worldwide are grappling with unprecedented challenges. From shifting regulatory landscapes and geopolitical tensions to rapid technological change and evolving public expectations, the need for integrated advisory services has never been greater.

Ankura’s expanded capabilities will be particularly valuable for clients operating in sectors where reputation, regulatory compliance, and political dynamics are tightly intertwined. Whether it’s managing a crisis, navigating international trade disputes, or crafting strategic communications to influence public policy, Ankura’s enhanced advisory platform will offer comprehensive solutions grounded in both expertise and experience.

Karl Brophy, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Red Flag Global, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Joining Ankura is an exciting step for Red Flag. It allows us to scale our impact globally while staying true to our mission of transforming how clients strategise, communicate, and influence. Together, we can offer clients unmatched support in navigating their most critical challenges.”

The future of Ankura’s global advisory services

With the integration of Red Flag Global, Ankura is poised to solidify its position as a leading provider of global advisory services. The firm’s multidisciplinary approach, combined with Red Flag’s public affairs expertise, will enable Ankura to deliver solutions that are not only comprehensive but also tailored to the unique needs of each client.

Ankura’s growth trajectory reflects a broader trend in the professional services industry, where firms are increasingly expected to offer end-to-end solutions that address both technical and strategic dimensions of client challenges. By bringing together expertise from diverse fields, Ankura is well-positioned to help clients navigate the complexities of today’s interconnected world.

With over 2,000 professionals serving more than 3,000 clients across 55 countries, Ankura’s reach is truly global. Its services span conflict management, risk mitigation, business transformation, and strategic advisory, all underpinned by a commitment to collaboration and results-driven solutions. The addition of Red Flag Global strengthens this foundation, ensuring that Ankura remains at the forefront of the advisory landscape in the years to come.