Crisis, Corporate Reputation, Policy Comms Expert Danny Phan Joins APCO

SINGAPORE – January 22, 2025: Danny Phan, an award-winning professional with more than 20 years of international experience across Asia and the United States, joined APCO, as announced today by APCO CEO Brad Staples.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Danny to APCO. His extensive experience across different markets and sectors will be invaluable to clients and colleagues alike,” Staples said. “We are confident that Danny’s strategic insight and expertise will enhance our client service offerings, and his leadership will inspire our team to drive our mission forward.”  

Prior to joining APCO, Phan served as the global chief strategy officer and managing director of the Asia Pacific region at Wachsman, a Web3, blockchain and fintech consultancy. Phan built a career advising world-leading brands on critical reputational issues and navigating complex challenges in frontier and emerging markets, as well as new and highly regulated industries pushing the boundaries of innovation and regulation.  

“APCO has set the gold standard in public affairs, policy advisory and advocacy. What sets APCO apart is its relentless focus on the future and its ability to integrate transformative technologies into advisory work—exactly what clients need today,” said Danny Phan. “While others are still discussing AI, APCO has been ahead of the curve since 2018 with its AI Labs, integrating AI, predictive geopolitical forecasting and data-driven stakeholder analysis to address clients’ challenges. This firm isn’t just keeping up; it’s outpacing the competition with unmatched talent, and innovative solutions. Joining APCO means stepping into the future of advisory work, and I am excited to bring my passion for innovation and strategy to this team.” 

Phan has advised world-leading brands such as Coca-Cola, Airbnb, Unilever, Sumitomo, SEA Group, Shell and leading financial institutions on some of their biggest reputational issues, from sustainability and social impact, energy transitions, digital transformation, change management and risk and crisis management. His work in the tech sector has been particularly impactful, advising major companies, including one of Southeast Asia’s largest ride-hailing companies, Airbnb and the Asia Internet Coalition, on policy and regulatory communications.  

Phan began his career in New York before taking on leadership roles across Asia. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including “Young PR Professional of the Year” at the Asia Pacific PR Awards and a place in Campaign Asia’s “40 Under 40” recognition.  

In addition to Phan, Chin Ann Ho is also joining APCO as a senior director. Ho previously worked at Wachsman, where he oversaw the firm’s operations in Singapore, building and managing high-performing teams that delivered award-winning work at the intersection of technology, finance and policy. Ho has advised leading companies in technology and finance, such as HP, VMware, SAP, DBS, SC Ventures, SGInnovate, Elevandi (now GFTN) and Nanyang Technological University. He has been instrumental in launching significant campaigns across the Asia Pacific, guiding companies through key growth and transformation phases.