GCI Health appointed industry veteran Lilit Bargar as EVP, corporate practice lead on Wednesday. 

The 2023 MM+M Agency 100 honoree named Bargar, an alum of advertising giant Weber Shandwick, to work with pharma brands on efforts related to above-brand storytelling and thought leadership.  

In her most recent role at Weber Shandwick, Bargar served as EVP in the firm’s healthcare practice and oversaw corporate thought leadership through executive communications for  pharma clients. Before that, she was the group SVP at Marina Maher Communications and spent nearly four years at Edelman.

“As pharmaceutical companies are working to deliver breakthroughs that will transform the healthcare  space, they’re realizing that above-brand storytelling is critical for gaining deeper connections with  stakeholders,” Bargar stated. “I’m thrilled to join the deep bench of strategic thinkers at GCI Health to help  existing and new clients uncover their unique narratives and bring them to life.” 

In the new role, Bargar will report to GCI Group’s global CEO Kristin Cahil, who welcomed her hire in a statement. 

“Healthcare organizations are placing more emphasis on their corporate brand and reputation than ever before,” Cahill stated.“ Lilit is a dynamic strategist and storyteller who will play a pivotal role in advancing our practice, helping to lead health  companies and their executives as they navigate the complexities of today’s communications landscape and rise as leaders in their field.” 

By decamping from Weber Shandwick, Bargar joins a growing medical marketing firm in GCI Health.

As part of MM+M’s annual list of the leading advertising agencies, GCI Health finished in the top 25 in terms of revenue. 

The WPP-owned agency recorded an estimated $126 million in revenue in 2022, up 5% year-over-year from $120 million in 2021. The agency also grew its headcount to 347 full-time employees over the same period. This included a concerted investment in its digital operations, bringing in leaders tasked with bolstering its capabilities around social media, Web3 and immersive experiences.

Additionally, Cahill told MM+M that GCI Health won approximately 70% of the accounts it pitched and added engagements with organizations like The Aspen Group, Lundbeck and Harvard University.