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DDB Group Melbourne poaches WhiteGrey talent for managing partner role

Katie Firth has joined DDB Group as Melbourne managing partner, after almost three years as national managing director at WhiteGrey, also working as a WPP Melbourne market lead.

Firth has previously held roles at TBWA, Cummins & Partners, CHE Proximity and Publicis Mojo. Mumbrella understands that Firth replaces Jess Hughes, who moved into a marketing role at NAB last month.

She has also worked across clients including ANZ, Medibank, Jeep, Nissan, Mars Petcare, AGL, and multiple state tourism bodies, with her work being recognised in multiple awards shows. 

Katie Firth, DDB Group Melbourne

Last month, DDB Group revealed its new Sydney CEO would be Sheryl Marjoram, who will return from London to take on the role in the new year. She replaces Priya Patel who was promoted to CEO of DDB Group Aotearoa New Zealand following the departure of Justin Mowday to The Monkeys.

This news follows a number of other appointments within the group, which includes former Clemenger BBDO chief creative officer, Stephen de Wolf as national CCO, replacing the recently departed Ben Welsh. Psembi Kinstan was also appointed as executive creative director and Matt Pearce as head of planning.

“DDB wants the same thing as I do: to make the best and most impactful work that makes our clients famous,” said Firth. “I’ve worked with Mike (Napolitano) previously, and he is one of the best in the industry. I look forward to partnering with him and the team to continue growing DDB Group Melbourne. I can’t wait to see what we do together.” 

Sheryl Marjoram, recently appointed DDB Group Sydney CEO

DDB Group Melbourne’s managing director, Mike Napolitano said: “Katie has built one of the most enviable reputations in our industry, and it says a lot about the team we are building here that she has chosen to join us.   

“I know that alongside our leadership group, including Psembi, Matt, and Wolfie, she’ll have a huge impact on the work, and help our clients continue to dominate their categories. With this team, great things lie ahead for DDB Group Melbourne.” 

DBB Group said Firth is also a mentor in The Trenches program, and a guest speaker for the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA). 

She takes on the role next month.

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