Features
What would a blockbuster merger between Seven West Media and HT&E look like?
With Mat Baxter launching IPG's design and innovation agency Huge in Australia, the team asks if there is room in the market. Then, a look at the touted merger between HT&E and Seven West Media, and the likelihood of it actually happening, before the team takes a look at Telstra's first brand ad under Brent Smart. Finally, M&C Saatchi's Justin Graham chats about his new role, changes to the local operation, and the chances of the group staying independent this year.
Mat Baxter is launching IPG’s design and innovation agency, Huge in Australia, less than a year after saying there wouldn’t be a local presence. With the agency set to be headed by fellow returning Aussie, Ben Skelsey, who recently spent a stint leading Huge in Singapore, the team discusses what the agency might look like in Australia as its starts up its operations without a physical office.
Then, with Seven West Media’s H2 financials for 2022 out, Wilson Asset Management senior equity analyst Shaun Weick joins the podcast to discuss the group’s results, what a rumoured merger between Seven West Media and HT&E could look like and how likely it is to eventuate.
The team then shares their takes on the first brand ad to come from newly appointed Telstra CMO Brent Smart, asking the question of whether this is or isn’t a dig at Optus’ 2022 cyber attack, or if the Telco is looking to diversify into the security space.
Finally, M&C Saatchi Group ANZ’s CEO Justin Graham joins the podcast to discuss his brand new global role, looking at how he plans to balance his local responsibilities with his new global remit. Graham also touches on changes to M&C Saatchi Group’s local operation as it moves towards a more integrated model, as well as the likelihood of the group remaining independent this year, following a number of unsuccessful takeover bids in 2022.
Episode breakdown
- Mat Baxter to launch Huge in the Australian market (1:58)
- Seven West Media’s h2 financials for 2022 (10:52)
- Telstra’s first campaign under Brent Smart (23:38)
- Interview with Justin Graham (28:03)
Have your say