Havas CEO David Jones exits after 15 years with group
David Jones
The global boss of Havas David Jones has stepped down from his role as CEO and is understood to be creating a technology startup.
Jones started his career with the Havas group when he was appointed CEO of Euro RSCG Sydney in 1998, moving to roles in New York before becoming global CEO of Havas Worldwide in 2005, and expanding his remit as CEO of Havas in 2011, taking in the media network.
He is being replaced by Yannick Bollore, the son of Havas’ main shareholder Vincent Bollore, with Andrew Bennett stepping up to lead the Havas Worldwide creative network.
The then struggling Euro RSCG brand was rebadged Havas Worldwide in 2012, with the Sydney office climing to be the most successful global outfit at last year’s Cannes Lions.
Jones is known for his strong views on social justice and brands using advertising to promote social change through advertising and communications.
In a statement released overnight Bollore said: “It’s a very exciting time for Havas. We are well on our way to realizing our goal of being the most integrated and innovative communications group of our industry.
“I would like to thank David for the impact he has made at Havas over the last 15 years. Thanks to his talent, David has contributed significantly to the improvement of the results and organization of the Group and its standing amongst clients and in the industry. I wish him all the best for his future business.”
Jones added: “If I were going to stay in the industry it would be at Havas, but I have always had a burning desire to be an entrepreneur and this is too exciting an opportunity to not seize. Those people who know me know my two passions in business are social media and social responsibility and this new venture combines the two.
“I want to thank the Bolloré Group and Vincent Bolloré in particular for his support and mentorship over the last eight years and wish Yannick every success.”
Last year, Jones participated in a live Google Hangout in which he was quizzed by Mumbrella’s Tim Burrowes, Robin Hicks and Nic Christensen about Havas in Australia, his book ‘Who Cares Wins’ and the charity he founded, One Young World.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4M3mo27rk2s
i think you’ll find David started at Euro Sydney in 1998 – not 1988 🙂 an amazing run for a brilliant leader. good luck David
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