Cornish to Remain on Board
Washington, D.C. — Avoq announced today that Nicole Cornish will step down as Chief Executive Officer by the end of the year, following eight years of transformative leadership. Cornish will remain on the Board to actively support a seamless leadership transition and continue to provide ongoing strategic guidance as the firm moves forward.
“It has been an incredible privilege to serve as CEO,” said Cornish. “I am immensely proud of our exceptional team and all we’ve achieved together. Avoq is well positioned for its next chapter, and I look forward to supporting the firm’s continued growth and success in my role on the Board.”
Cornish has guided the company through transformative milestones defined by strategic growth, enhanced client capabilities and a strong commitment to culture and innovation. Under her leadership, Avoq achieved record revenue with consistent profitability year over year, expanded its client portfolio and evolved from a Washington, D.C.-based operation to a national powerhouse with broader reach and services.
“Nicole has been an extraordinary leader for Avoq, her leadership and integrity set the foundation for everything we’ve built,” said Dan Sallick, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Avoq. “She not only brought together great organizations but also inspired a culture that puts people and client impact at the center. Her legacy will be felt across Avoq for years to come, and we are thankful for her leadership and lasting contributions.”
Cornish oversaw the formation of a strategic partnership with Coral Tree Partners and played a leading role in completing several high-impact acquisitions. Following the combination of Subject Matter and Kivvit, she spearheaded the comprehensive rebranding effort to Avoq, aligning the company’s identity with a dynamic, forward-looking mission. Cornish has navigated pivotal moments in the industry with clarity and resilience, with a constant focus on cultivating talent and elevating the next generation of leaders across the organization, most recently overseeing the first-time promotions of new partners and practice leads.
“We are grateful for Nicole’s many contributions over the past several years as she guided the firm and with an unwavering commitment to the people and mission of Avoq. During her tenure, we achieved record revenue, and she leaves the firm well positioned for continued growth,” said Will Wynperle, Partner and Founder of Coral Tree Partners. “We’re fortunate she will remain on the Board to help guide this important transition and support Avoq’s continued momentum.”
The company has initiated a comprehensive search to find her successor and plans to onboard a new leader by the end of the year to build on Cornish’s legacy and lead Avoq into its next phase of evolution.
The leadership team remains committed to driving forward the firm’s mission while ensuring a smooth and strategic transition.
About Avoq
Avoq is an integrated firm that combines communications and advocacy to creatively shape narratives, manage brand reputation, influence national debates, and engage the audiences you need to reach. Avoq’s 200+ employees work from offices in Washington D.C., Chicago, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Miami. Avoq is a portfolio company of Coral Tree Partners, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm focused on investments in the media, entertainment and communications sectors. Visit teamavoq.com to learn more.
