We’re spotlighting our Edelman Culture Champions, individuals recognized by their peers for exceptional dedication, positivity, and contributions to fostering a supportive workplace environment. These champions play a pivotal role in cultivating a culture where every voice is heard and valued. This edition of Inside Edelman features profiles of these outstanding colleagues from our U.S. offices, showcasing their efforts to uphold Edelman’s values of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB).
Tell us about your Edelman journey.
My Edelman journey has been largely shaped by the people around me – those who’ve consistently fostered a culture that encourages me to challenge myself. Upon joining from university, the Public & Government Affairs team – and Edelman broadly – took me in, and helped create an environment in which I was able to impact meaningful work. That foundation led me to work on the COP28 assignment, where I was fortunate to be part of a brilliant team that helped craft the UAE Consensus. That experience taught me a lot, such as the many forms leadership can take, the power of optimism, and the brilliance of a team when it’s firing on all cylinders. It also deepened my commitment to climate work. Now based in New York City, I’ve been able to continue to commit to work I’m passionate about alongside people I learn from every day.
You were nominated for Culture Champion by your colleagues – how do you foster a collaborative and respectful culture within your team?
For me, it goes beyond just the immediate team – it’s about contributing to the broader organization. Edelman is a unique workplace that can appear large at times - the more you connect with others, whether while grabbing a coffee or on your way up the elevator, the more you feed into a collaborative ecosystem that touches all parts of the office. And, to me, that often happens in the office. I genuinely believe in the power of in-person connection, and credit it to many friendships I’ve built across the company.
How does your personal background play a role in your professional life?
I have family in both Tallinn, Estonia and Jacksonville, Florida – connecting with them regularly, while moving around quite a bit during my formative years, influenced my appreciation for how diverse experiences can build perspective. It also taught me the value of staying curious across different people, places, and ideas. That’s helped me better serve our community and culture, which starts within Edelman and transpires into our client work.
When you think about the future of Edelman, what does it look like for you?
Edelman’s history of growth is indicative of an organization that has the ability to adapt in periods of transformation. Today’s nature of work is at a critical juncture and the firm has invested time and resources into helping its employees learn and grow. Looking ahead, I see a future full of opportunity, and I’m especially excited about the positive impact Edelman can play in a sustainable future.
You founded two Edelman soccer leagues in New York and D.C., fondly named Edelman FC. What inspired you to start these?
Soccer (or football) speaks to an ethos I believe is applicable both within and outside the workplace. To me, it teaches the value of teamwork and community in the pursuit of success. In my experience, it has helped deepen connections with colleagues across many specialties and sectors that I may not have had the opportunity of meeting otherwise. I’m proud of the countless friendships I’ve been able to make – and I’ve been able to bear witness to - through soccer. It’s truly a beautiful thing.
Max Haskell is a Senior Analyst based in New York.
