Former Australian ambassador to China joins PR firm Kreab Gavin Anderson

Commenting on the appointment, Brian Tyson, Kreab Gavin Anderson’s managing partner Australia and New Zealand said that Raby's love for China and his knowledge about the workings of its government and businesses will be invaluable to the firm's clients.

“China is playing an increasingly influential role in global politics and a growing number of Australians feel their future economic prosperity is linked to Asian and particularly Chinese economic growth and prosperity," he said. "For Chinese companies seeking to enter the Australian economy, a strategic communication and stakeholder strategy is key to achieving better business outcomes for investors from both countries.”

According to the firm's managing partner for Asia, Richard Barton, international business transactions in China often succeed or fail based on an understanding of local political and economic conditions and policies.

Raby adds his senior advisory role to his positions as non-executive director at Fortescue Minerals and Oceana Gold, executive director at Riverstone Advisory, co-chair of Corrs Chambers Westgarth's China Practice and advisor to the Queensland Investment Corporation.