UM Australia’s managing partner promoted to Sydney GM

October 16, 2025 11:49

After a decade at UM, Andrew Clift ascends to general manager for Sydney

Andrew Clift, managing partner at media agency UM Australia, has been promoted to general manager (GM) of the company’s Sydney office.

The industry professional joined UM as a partnerships trader in April 2016. Since then, he’s advanced within the company, taking on partnerships manager and director roles. Before UM, he spent over one and half years at Mediacom Australia.

Overall, Clift’s career has seen him spearhead client communications, account management, and media buying and planning work, alongside delivering client solutions on traditional and digital channels.

In a media release shared on Thursday morning, Clift expressed his gratitude for the next stage of his career and for the opportunities it presents for clients and the business.

“I’m thrilled to take on this next chapter at UM and lead our team in such an exciting period for our industry,” Clift said.

“Over the past decade, I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible clients and teams, and this role is an opportunity to continue building on that foundation and help solve the complex challenges businesses face today.

“Under my leadership our aim will be to continue to drive innovation and deliver outstanding outcomes for clients as we move into 2026 and beyond.”

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UM Australia’s chief executive officer, Anathea Ruys, praised Clift’s track record with the agency and labelled him “the right talent” to lead the organisation’s Sydney team.

“Promoting from within is always a proud moment for UM, and Andrew is the right talent to lead our Sydney office into 2026 and beyond,” Ruys said in the same release.

“He is deeply immersed in the business and has an outstanding track record of delivering real value and impact for our clients. He will bring new energy and leadership to help our Sydney team continue to thrive.”

Clift commences in the role immediately.

His appointment isn’t the only leadership news UM has revealed this year. In May, Lisa McMillan joined the team to lead the agency’s government accounts, following the February departure of her predecessor, Brett Elliot, who moved to Dentsu to be its media chief operating officer.

UM also elevated Brittany Crowley — former Sydney head of investment — to national head of investment in August.