Headhunters in overdrive as BWM, Ogilvy, The Works expand creative and management teams
Westerdal and Gaslain: BWM new creative hires
Australia’s ad agency headhunters have been in overdrive with a number of agencies announcing major creative hires.
BWM, recently the subject of speculation it was facing a creative exodus, announced it has boosted it creative team in Sydney with former Droga5 and Mojo writer Oskar Westerdal and ex-M&C Saatchi art director Jerome Gaslain.
Chief creative officer Rob Belgiovane told Mumbrella this week that industry rumours that the agency had seen a number of departures were unfounded and that both the Melbourne and Sydney offices continued to grow.
BWM Dentsu executive creative director, Asheen Naidu, said the appointment was an important addition to the agency.
“We’re thrilled to see some new creative blood pump through the agency. Oskar and Jerome’s work is evidence of the quality and rare thinking they possess which will help us continue carving out our distinct agency identity, Naidu said.
MD and Chair moves at Ogilvy Melbourne
In Melbourne, Ogilvy & Mather managing director, Jo Rozario, has stepped back from her role to become chairperson, with Michael McEwan and Gavin MacMillan now managing the agency. Both have been promoted to managing partners.
“When it became obvious we needed greater senior management on a day-to-day basis, they were obvious choices. We are proud to be able to find this level of capability within our existing ranks and we look forward to seeing further growth under their stewardship,” said Ogilvy Australia CEO, David Fox.
Watson: Formerly of 303Lowe now at The Works
In Sydney, The Works has named Phil Watson as creative partner. Watson joins the agency from 303Lowe where he was creative director for digital, direct and brand activation.
Creative partner and founder Damian Pincus said the appointment came in the wake of the agency being appointed to the Optus roster.
“The time is right time to bring in another senior creative thinker who epitomises our ‘Creatives on the Forefront’ model, in engaging directly with clients to address their business issues,” Pincus said.
Simon Canning
