Publicis Groupe today announces the appointment of James Morris as CEO of creative transformation for Publicis Groupe EMEA, accelerating Publicis’ connected capabilities, across media, data and creative with production at the very core.

The appointment of Morris signals a continued investment into Publicis Groupe UK and its role as a platform for Europe to drive growth, strengthen collaboration and scale expertise and capabilities for clients. Morris will report to Loris Nold, CEO of Publicis Groupe EMEA and work in close partnership with Sergio Lopez-Ferrero, global CEO of Publicis Production. 

Joining in the newly created position of CEO of creative transformation for EMEA, Morris brings proven cross-disciplinary leadership skills, and will be responsible for further connecting and scaling production across the Groupe, using tech to reinvent the ways in which work is delivered for clients.

Loris Nold, CEO Publicis Groupe EMEA, comments, “I am thrilled that James is joining us as he is truly a hybrid leader with a proven track record in delivering connected and innovative solutions for clients. Production is a massive priority for us and we’ve been accelerating on both delivery capabilities and tech solutions for our clients across the region. His unique and multi-disciplinary skillset, spanning media, creative, production and strategic leadership, positions him perfectly to help deliver transformative models to our clients.”

James Morris, CEO Creative Transformation EMEA, comments, “I am over the moon to be joining Publicis at a time of such momentum and growth. Publicis Groupe’s world leading agency brands, clients, diverse capabilities, craft and integrity, is second to none. I cannot wait to join this incredibly talented team to deliver groundbreaking solutions for clients across the EMEA region.”

Morris joins from Dentsu Creative where he held the role of chief executive officer across EMEA, responsible for transforming and integrating creative capabilities to drive innovative growth for clients. He was also responsible for leading production globally and facilitating M&A strategies within this remit to bolster offerings locally and globally. Throughout his tenure at Dentsu, Morris was also chair of the UK&I Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council.

Prior to Dentsu, Morris was global CEO of international production company Stink, leading the creation of a broad content portfolio from cult TV shows and music videos to branded content and digital experiences for brands including Channel 4, Google, Nike and COTY. James has also held global leadership roles at WPP, leading Mediacom Beyond Advertising globally and ITV’s Twofour.

Morris will join Publicis Groupe in January 2024.