Pinkston, a strategy and communications consultancy firm, has acquired Pliris Strategies, a messaging and communications firm.

The deal will enable Pinkston to better serve its customer base with immediate integration of experienced communications professionals and expands its presence into the souther United States. Following the deal, Pliris CEO, Donelle Harder, will join Pinkston as senior vice president.

“In today’s environment, communicators can’t hide behind brands, whether those brands are companies, nonprofit groups or government agencies,” said Donelle Harder, Pliris founder and CEO. “The challenge all entities face is identifying the message their most critical audience needs to hear and how to communicate it effectively.”

“We’re excited to welcome the Pliris team into the Pinkston family,” said Christian Pinkston, founder and partner of Pinkston. “Donelle has built an incredible practice during some of the hardest years to build a business in recent history. Her success is a testament to her reputation, expertise and passion for effective messaging and storytelling.”