Burson U.S.’s Tom Dowling to retire at the end of year as agency announces new Energy & Industrials lead

NEW YORK (August 27, 2026) - Burson, the global communications leader purpose-built to create value for clients through reputation, today announced that after nearly four decades, Tom Dowling, U.S. Chair of Energy and Industrials, will retire from the company effective December 31, 2026. Until then, Dowling will remain with Burson as a Senior Advisor to the Energy & Industrials practice, supporting clients and colleagues and helping ensure a smooth transition.

Matt Wagner, Executive Vice President and Global Client Leader, Burson U.S., will become U.S. Chair of its Energy & Industrials (E&I) practice, effective October 1. Wagner, who joined the agency in July, will build upon the strong foundation of Burson's Energy & Industrials practice and lead it into its next chapter.

Dowling began his career at Burson-Marsteller more than 37 years ago and made significant contributions to Burson, its clients and its people throughout his tenure. His leadership turned Burson into a leading voice in the Energy & Industrials sector, while his deep expertise and long-standing client relationships positively impacted each individual that he counseled, mentored and hired throughout his tenure.

"I'd like to congratulate and thank Tom for his enduring impact on Burson. His influence extends far beyond the Energy & Industrials business he helped build," said Craig Buchholz, U.S. CEO, Burson. "He has been a trusted partner to our clients, a mentor to generations of colleagues and a leader who has always put people and relationships at the center of his work. His legacy will live on in the strength of our E&I practice, the people he has developed and the lasting relationships he has built. We are incredibly grateful for everything Tom has contributed to Burson and look forward to celebrating all he has accomplished over the coming months."

Wagner brings deep experience across the energy and industrials sectors, along with a track record of advising major global organizations on complex business and reputational challenges. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening Burson's E&I business, deepening client relationships and identifying opportunities for growth across the practice.

Wagner will expand Burson's breadth of expertise to help clients navigate the most pressing challenges facing the E&I sector, from corporate reputation and leadership positioning to issues management, transformation and growth. His appointment reflects Burson's continued commitment to helping clients navigate an increasingly complex business environment in the U.S.

"Matt brings tremendous sector expertise, a global perspective and a strong track record of advising complex organizations," added Buchholz. "He has already given our clients valuable perspectives and brings continued momentum to our Energy & Industrials business since joining Burson earlier this summer. I'm excited to see him lead and build on the strength of the practice as we look toward its next chapter."