Former US-based agency executive joins TABOO
Melbourne-based creative agency TABOO has appointed a former MullenLowe US and TBWA executive as its new managing partner, talent and operations.
Frannie Rhodes, who spent four years at MullenLowe US and two at TBWA\Chiat\Day New York, will lead TABOO’s talent acquisition and development initiatives, drive creative operational excellence, and spearhead the agency’s overall growth.
Rhodes’ career spans over 25 years across major US markets, including New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles. From 2011-2014, she worked with TABOO partner and director James Mackinnon at New York-based consultancy StrawberryFrog, leading operations and creative services.
“Having known Frannie for over 14 years – and seen the impact she can have on an agency, I could not be more excited to have her join us as a managing partner,” Mackinnon said.
“Her passion for people and her ability to create a space where great work can happen is evident in her track record,” he continued. “Having Frannie’s energy here in Australia is a win for TABOO and the local creative industry. Our next chapter is certainly going to be a fun one.”
Rhodes said of her appointment: “When the opportunity arose to be part of TABOO’s growth, I thought, why the hell not? I am thrilled to immerse myself in Melbourne’s vibrant creative community.
“Most importantly, TABOO embodies the exact environment I’ve been seeking – an edgy, creative vibe that celebrates people, creativity, design, and innovation.
“I am eager to contribute to TABOO’s 23-year success story by continuing to open up pathways for unexpected, culture-led creativity, fostering talent, and building a team of unbound thinkers.”
She joins Mackinnon and the wider leadership team of Andrew Mackinnon, founder and CEO, Kate Prowse, general manager, and former Clemenger Group chief financial officer Jonathan Issacs, who recently joined the agency as chairman.
In February last year, Prowse was promoted to general manager upon her return from maternity leave. She is responsible for day-to-day operations.
The agency recently launched new work for Starward Whisky and the Melbourne Racing Club. Mid-last year, it launched a community impact lab in Melbourne – a space for creatives to come together and share ideas.
It also partnered with Bur’an Australia’s cultural ambassador and Aboriginal artist John Smith Gumbala, to form a strategic partnership aiming to drive progress in Australia’s creative landscape for Indigenous voices and representation.
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Lauren McNamara is a journalist at Mumbrella, covering the creative and PR beat. She joined in November 2022 as editorial assistant, after completing a Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) at UTS.
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