BBH USA Appoints Steven Panariello as Chief Executive Officer

BBH USA has appointed Steven Panariello as its chief executive officer. Based in New York City. Steven will lead the agency in the US in order to advance its momentum in delivering culture-defining campaigns and creative excellence for leading brands, including Smuckers, Netflix, Samsung, Heineken, and more. 

The new appointment reflects the agency’s commitment to investing in top-tier talent to propel its forward trajectory as it enters its 25th year. Alongside BBH USA’s chief creative officer, Erica Roberts, chief strategy officer, Samantha Deevy, and chief marketing officer, Lindsey McNabb Hover, Steven will guide the agency in its next era of growth, reinforcing the agency’s reputation as a leader in breakthrough creativity.

Steven joins from BBDO New York, where he most recently served as managing director. He led the agency through consistent evolution by modernizing creative output and leading key client relationships. He also drove growth at scale across BBDO’s marquee clients, including Bacardi Ltd, Pedigree, M&Ms, Snickers, Wells Fargo, and FedEx. Additionally, his strategic vision for BBDO NY led to their multiple Webby recognitions as Agency of the Year and producing work consistently recognised at the Cannes Festival of Creativity, D&AD, and The One Show. While overseeing the global portfolio of Bacardi Ltd, he propelled the brand to the forefront of the industry, making it the most creatively awarded spirits brand. Before BBDO, Steven held roles at Droga5, Naked Communications, and TBWA.

“BBH has a reputation for delivering unbridled creativity and brave ideas that revive brands – it’s a privilege to join the agency during a time of significant momentum and evolution,” Steven said. "I’m excited to lead the BBH team in continuing to put the ‘zag where others zig’ philosophy to work and driving more transformation for more of our partners.”

Steven’s expertise and leadership will help BBH continue driving the momentum and recognition that has earned its regard as the industry’s leader in connecting brands with culture. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience across growth, account management, and strategy-focused roles, Steven brings a dynamic leadership style to BBH to help further elevate the agency’s reputation in attracting and retaining high-profile clients and top talent.

“BBH USA plays a special role at Publicis Groupe with its iconic creative pedigree. We are thrilled to have Steven lead the charge in its next chapter of modern expansion and acceleration,” said Carla Serrano, chief strategy officer of Publicis Groupe. “Steven will guide the agency in its next era of growth, reinforcing the agency’s reputation as a leader in breakthrough creativity.”

The latest executive appointment comes during a period of growth for BBH USA, underscored by being the creative powerhouse behind PSOne, the Power of One solution for The J.M. Smucker Co, and celebrated breakthrough campaigns, including JIF The Merger, Netflix Price of Morals, and Samsung UnCrushed.