Cerrell Associates Inc said late Wednesday that longtime president Hal Dash has taken over the titles of chairman and chief executive from founder Joe Cerrell, who in recent years had stepped back from an active role in the high-profile Los Angeles public relations firm he founded in 1966.

Dash, who joined the firm in 1977 and has been president for 21 years, helped guide Cerrell Associates’s evolution from a largely Democratic campaign consultant to a full-service public affairs, advocacy and issues management agency.

“I am honored to lead the most talented and experienced team of professionals that Cerrell Associates has ever had into a new and exciting era of growth and prosperity,” Dash said.

The firm also announced three promotions. Executive Vice Presidents Matt Klink and Lisa Gritzner each assume the title of president. Executive Vice President Kristen Lonner becomes a principal. Cerrell takes on the title of chairman emeritus.

Klink, who has worked at Cerrell Associates for 15 years, will continue to run the firm’s campaign and issues management practice. Gritzner, former chief of staff for L.A. City Councilwoman Cindy Miscikowski, joined Cerrell five years ago and has managed the firm’s growing local government practice. Lonner, former chief planning deputy for Miscikowski, now heads Cerrell’s land use and planning practice.