Jane Howard, former chairman of Mandate, has joined Ashford-based Quantum Public Relations as a non-executive director.

One of the few Chartered Institute of Public Relations chartered practitioners in the UK, Mrs Howard is also a founding fellow of the Public Relations Consultants Association.

She ran her own agency, Republic, with Deborah Lewis, which was subsequently bought by Mandate, before becoming chairman of Mandate, a role she filled until last December.

Mrs Howard, who is advising the firm and identifying new business opportunities, said: "Quantum is an exceptional niche agency, with unparalleled skills and experience. My challenge is to help transfer the agency's skills into other sectors and develop its client base.

Managing director Charlie Vavasour said: "Jane has the experience and insight to help Quantum develop and grow."