Digitas today announced key promotions, following the agency’s move toward a unified, single-agency model across Australia and New Zealand.
Effective immediately, Simon Brock expands his position as executive creative director ANZ, taking on the elevated role of General Manager, Digitas Australia. As part of his broadened remit, Brock will be charged with leading the growth of the agency’s people, clients, and profile in the Australian market.
Digitas’ creative director, Thomas McMullan, will take on day-to-day management of the agency’s Creative team, while working with Brock in shaping the agency’s vision and creative proposition.
In other promotions, Hannah Melanson has moved from copy director to oversee a broader creative remit as Associate creative director. Oliver Ree, previously design lead, has been appointed as Associate design director, leading the agency’s platform design practice.
Digitas ANZ CEO, Adrian Farouk, said: “By unifying our deep capabilities across five ANZ offices, we are on a mission to unlock the full potential of Connected Marketing to offer an unmatched proposition to the region. I'm excited to elevate Simon as a galvanising force in making this ambition a reality – alongside such a talented team of experts in Thomas, Hannah, and Oli.”
On his appointment, Simon Brock said: “I’ve had the privilege of being a Digitas unicorn for almost a decade. During that time, my efforts have always centred around using creativity to solve problems, and helping brands connect with people. In my role as Digitas Australia’s general manager, I'm excited to apply that skill set to a broader set of clients and challenges, to strengthen our incredible culture beyond borders, and to help grow the careers of some amazingly talented and passionate people.”
Under Brock's leadership, Digitas’ creative team has earnt local and global recognition for its work with Tourism Australia, EA Games and Pernod Ricard. Digitas Australia has also won eight awards for Digital and Specialist Agency of the Year.