AKQA set to create a global new-media agency network.

AKQA, one of the UK's largest independent new-media agencies, is setting up a global network with new offices in the US and Asia.

The company has received 48 million [pounds sterling] in funding from Accenture -- formerly Andersen Consulting -- and Francisco Partners LP, and will expand its London base to establish offices in New York, San Francisco, LA, Singapore and Washington over the next few months.

Rick Hadala, previously the chief executive of Ammirati Puris Lintas in the US, is to be the company's global chief executive. Ajaz Ahmed, the company's founder and managing director, is to become the global chairman and chief marketing officer. AKQA's UK …