Suzanne O'Leary Lopez has joined Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide/Chicago as executive vice-president and group director of the agency's Chicago corporate practice. Nathan Friedman previously held the position, before his promotion in January to managing director. Lopez will help lead new business efforts, provide senior counsel to clients and oversee the growing Ogilvy PR corporate practice in Chicago

Previously, Lopez was assistant vice-president of public relations and corporate communications at Thornburg Mortgage Inc., where she developed and implemented corporate positioning and reputation management programs, and served as the primary spokesperson for the company. "I was drawn to Ogilvy PR because of the strong leadership team and unique culture," said Lopez.

Nathan Friedman has been promoted to managing director of Ogilvy PR/Chicago, effective Jan. 1, 2010. He replaces Mike Hatcliffe, who will return to his original role as head of the agency's United States corporate practice, where he directs strategies for corporate clients across the Ogilvy PR network.

In Friedman's new role, he will be responsible for managing all aspects of the Chicago office, including client service, financial oversight and personnel development. Friedman joined Ogilvy Pr in 1999, and most recently served as group director of the Chicago office's corporate practice. Friedman has worked with a number of Ogilvy PR clients, including Hudson, Deloitte, CDW and LG Electronics. A search for a new Chicago group director is underway.