Bang replaces Scott Caulfield as MD following ‘misalignment’ with board over strategic direction
Digital creative agency Bang has shaken up its leadership team with Melanie Jeffress taking over as managing director with founder Martin Mason stepping into the chief marketing role with parent NextGen Group.
Melanie Jeffress has risen through ranks during a seven year career at Bang.
The reshuffle follows the departure of Scott Caulfield, who held both roles at the business, following disagreements over the direction of the business.
Mason told Mumbrella: “There was a misalignment on Bang’s strategic direction between Scott and the NEXTGEN Group board so a decision was made to part company.”
Caulfield joined NextGen in 2013.
Bang has also appointed Holy Cow client services director Katie Salmaggi to head up its sales division.
She will lead the agency’s new business development and sales efforts, supporting Jeffress in finances management.
Jeffress has spent seven years at Bang, the last two as client services director.
“After a number of years working with the business, I’m grateful for the recognition and this opportunity to take things to the next level and lead Bang as we begin the next chapter of our story,” she said.
“I really appreciate the experienced and diverse NextGen board supporting two female leaders at Bang, and it’s great to be joined by Katie, who brings fresh ideas and energy to our expanding team.”
Katie Salmaggi joins Bang from Holy Cow.
Mason, who founded the agency in 2001 before selling to NextGen in 2017, said the rise of Jeffress through the ranks – she joined the agency as senior account manager in 2013 – was testament to its policy of hiring from within.
“Bang has always looked to create career opportunities from within for the right talented people,” he said. “Over more than seven years, Mel has proven to be an incredibly strong team player, guiding and managing our people to the point where she knows the business and the industry inside out.”
Of his own appointment, Mason said: “I’m looking forward to changing gears with a group CMO role as I help guide NextGen’s marketing, while supporting Mel in her leadership position as a non-executive director with Bang.”
Mason will remain chairman of the Bang board.
