The Synergetic Group works with clients to develop, tailor and execute strategic communications and stakeholder engagement initiatives for their unique circumstances to help them achieve their objectives.
Jim Burke – President (based in Bluffton, South Carolina)
Jim founded the The Synergetic Group in 2015 after a 30-year corporate career in communications, human resources and labor relations. Previously, Jim held executive communications roles with General Motors, Federal-Mogul and Babcock & Wilcox.
Jim has an extensive background in internal communications yet also has worked with top news outlets and numerous local and trade media. He has successfully led comprehensive internal and external communication strategies for mergers, acquisitions, other business expansions and downsizing, new products and crises. He has directed CSR initiatives, working with local government while strengthening company relationships in communities. He has served as company spokesperson and has counseled CEOs and other members of the C-suite at several companies. Earlier in his career, he held leader roles in HR and labor relations. He has worked in manufacturing facilities as well as divisional and corporate headquarters. His career experiences have allowed him to collaborate with colleagues and clients in every region of the world.
Jim holds a master’s degree in business administration from the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Michigan.
He is a past president of the Charlotte, North Carolina, chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators and previously served for several years on the board of directors for the Detroit chapter of the Public Relations Society of America.
Robert Herta – Senior Consultant (based in Detroit)
Robert has been a strategic communications consultant to companies in the consumer packaged goods, automotive and service industries. He was director of Corporate and Digital Communications and Global Brand Management at Meritor. Previously, he held a variety of global communications positions during a 15-year career at General Motors, supporting global product development, the company’s Mexico operations, OnStar, global auto shows, human resources, and Customer Care and Aftersales. Earlier in his career, he was the public relations manager for Michigan’s largest home health care company.
Robert is past president of IABC Detroit and taught public relations and journalism classes as an adjunct assistant professor at Madonna University. He majored in communications and holds an MBA from the University of Detroit Mercy.
The Synergetic Group is a proud member of the Westmeath Global Communications Netsortium®.
