HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, N.J. — One of New Jersey’s most influential public relations and communications firms is strengthening its executive leadership team as demand grows for strategic guidance in public affairs, crisis response and corporate reputation management. MikeWorldWide, a globally recognized communications agency with deep roots in the Garden State, has named veteran political strategist Mahen Gunaratna as executive vice president of public affairs, signaling an expanded focus on navigating complex policy environments and high-stakes communications challenges.
The appointment reflects the agency’s continued growth and evolving role within the communications industry, particularly as organizations across sectors seek sophisticated strategies to manage reputation, regulatory scrutiny and public perception in an increasingly complex media landscape. With a career spanning government, political campaigns and senior advisory roles, Gunaratna brings more than 15 years of experience managing communications in environments where rapid decision-making and strategic clarity are critical.
MikeWorldWide, widely known as MWW, has built its reputation as a leading independent, full-service public relations and communications firm since its founding in 1986 by CEO Michael Kempner. The agency reintroduced itself to the marketplace in 2021 with a rebrand that emphasized its global perspective and expanded capabilities, evolving from its earlier identity as MWWPR into a modern communications consultancy focused on reputation-driven strategy and integrated messaging.
Although the firm operates major offices in New York City and key markets worldwide, its corporate headquarters in Hasbrouck Heights underscores its enduring ties to New Jersey’s business and political landscape. The company recently relocated its headquarters from East Rutherford in early 2024, reinforcing its long-standing presence in the state. In addition to its North Jersey base, MikeWorldWide maintains a strong presence in Trenton, positioning the agency at the center of state government relations and public affairs activity.
Over the years, the firm has established itself as one of New Jersey’s largest public relations and public affairs agencies, widely recognized for its extensive experience in political communications, corporate strategy and stakeholder engagement. Its work frequently intersects with policy development, government relations and major institutional initiatives, making the company a key player in shaping communications strategies across both public and private sectors. Readers following broader developments in corporate strategy and leadership trends can explore related reporting through Sunset Daily’s business coverage.
Gunaratna’s addition to the executive team reflects MikeWorldWide’s focus on expanding its public affairs capabilities at a time when organizations face heightened scrutiny from regulators, policymakers and the public. In his new role, he will advise clients navigating complex legislative and regulatory environments, reputational challenges and crisis situations requiring precise messaging and coordinated stakeholder communication.
Before joining MikeWorldWide, Gunaratna served as chief strategy advisor and communications director to former New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, where he played a central role in shaping public messaging and policy communications during a period marked by significant legislative activity and unprecedented public health challenges. His work included guiding communications strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic and overseeing messaging related to thousands of legislative actions across two gubernatorial terms.
His experience also includes serving as deputy communications director for former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, further strengthening his background in municipal governance and public policy communications. Throughout his career, Gunaratna has worked across multiple levels of government, including the governor’s office, presidential campaigns, Congress and New York City Hall, developing a reputation for aligning strategic messaging with institutional objectives under intense public scrutiny.
MikeWorldWide leadership emphasized that Gunaratna’s experience in high-pressure environments enhances the firm’s ability to support organizations confronting complex reputational and operational challenges. Company executives noted that his track record in government communications and crisis management will strengthen the agency’s capacity to deliver comprehensive public affairs counsel for clients facing rapidly evolving issues.
The firm’s service model centers on what it describes as a “reputation-first” philosophy, integrating traditional public relations with data-driven insights, digital strategy and stakeholder engagement. Its core offerings include corporate communications services such as executive positioning and crisis response, government relations and lobbying, and digital and social media strategy, including influencer partnerships and search optimization initiatives.
In recent years, the agency has expanded its specialized practices to address emerging global issues, including the launch of a dedicated supply chain, logistics and infrastructure communications practice. The initiative reflects growing demand for strategic communications related to manufacturing, transportation and global commerce — sectors facing increased public attention and regulatory oversight.
MikeWorldWide’s influence extends far beyond New Jersey, with offices in major global markets including London, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Denver and Mexico City. The firm’s diverse client portfolio spans industries such as technology, healthcare, consumer products, food and beverage and professional sports, positioning it as a key advisor for organizations seeking to manage brand perception and public engagement across international markets.
Industry analysts note that communications firms are increasingly called upon to guide organizations through rapidly changing public expectations, complex policy frameworks and heightened digital visibility. The addition of senior leadership with extensive government and crisis management experience reflects broader trends across the communications sector, where expertise in policy navigation and stakeholder relations has become essential.
Gunaratna expressed enthusiasm about joining the agency at a time when organizations face unprecedented levels of public evaluation and accountability. He emphasized the importance of clear strategy and effective communication in helping institutions respond to defining moments and complex decision-making scenarios.
For MikeWorldWide, the appointment represents another step in its continued expansion as a global communications leader with strong New Jersey roots. As businesses, public institutions and organizations confront an evolving landscape shaped by economic pressures, regulatory changes and shifting public expectations, the firm’s growing leadership team underscores its commitment to delivering strategic counsel designed to help clients navigate uncertainty and maintain public trust.
