Margery Kraus is a globally renowned communications strategist, master storyteller, and pioneering force in the evolution of modern corporate advisory. As Founder and Executive Chair of APCO Worldwide, she has shaped one of the world’s most influential advisory and advocacy consultancies, headquartered in Washington, D.C., with a presence spanning the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
With unparalleled expertise in issue-based communications, crisis management, market entry, and corporate reputation, Margery has advised leading corporations, governments, and institutions at the highest levels—guiding them through complexity, transformation, and global impact.
In 1984, Margery founded APCO with a bold vision and a single office in Washington, D.C. Under her leadership, the firm evolved into a global powerhouse. She successfully led a landmark management buyout in 2004, establishing APCO as one of the largest privately held consulting firms in the world—and notably, one of the largest majority women-owned firms in the industry. A true innovator, she was also among the first to pioneer corporate responsibility advisory and the integration of public-private partnerships into strategic communications.
Before launching APCO, Margery played a foundational role in the creation of the Close Up Foundation, a multimillion-dollar civic education initiative supported by the United States Congress. She continues to serve on its board, reflecting a lifelong commitment to education and civic engagement.
Margery’s extraordinary leadership has earned her some of the most prestigious honors in business and communications. Her recent recognitions include the Enterprising Women Business Icon Award (2026) and induction into American University’s Kogod School of Business Hall of Fame (2026). She has been named one of Washington, D.C.’s Most Powerful Women by Washingtonian Magazine (2025), received the Leading Woman Award (2025), and the American University Cy Ansary Medal (2024). Her industry-defining influence is further reflected in honors such as PRWeek’s U.S. Power List (2020–2024), the PRSA John W. Hill Award (2024), and PRWeek’s Top 20 Most Influential Communicators. Her earlier accolades include Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year (2006) and the Corporate Statesmanship Award from the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress.
Beyond her executive leadership, Margery is a highly respected voice across institutional and corporate governance. She serves as Chairman Emeritus of the Women Presidents’ Organization, sits on the advisory board of Enterprising Women magazine, and is an ambassador for Fortune’s Most Powerful Women. Her board service includes American University, the Catherine B. Reynolds Foundation, and WAMU, among others. She has also held influential roles with Northwestern Mutual, the Public Affairs Council, the PR Council, and Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.
At the heart of her remarkable career is a deep commitment to family. Margery has been married to her husband, Steve, for over fifty years, and is a proud mother of three and grandmother of nine.
A visionary builder. A trusted advisor. A legacy-defining leader.
