Leo Burnett Names Samantha Cescau as Head of Strategy

Today, Leo Burnett Chicago welcomes new head of strategy, Samantha Cescau. Samantha will be based in the agency’s Chicago headquarters, reporting to Gareth Goodall, chief strategy officer of Publicis Creative US. 

Samantha joins the agency from TBWA\Chiat\Day where she was head of strategy, and will oversee Leo Burnett Chicago’s strategy department, ensuring the consistent delivery of top-tier, creatively ambitious work driven by highly insightful strategy for all Chicago clients including Kellogg’s, Dunkin,’ and Beam Suntory. 

“With Samantha, we're welcoming a leader who not only understands the intricacies of creative excellence but also possesses a deep commitment to fostering creativity and kindness within our organisation,” said Gareth Goodall, chief strategy officer. “A winning combination, her experience will not only empower our teams but will also ensure we deliver the strategic excellence required to deliver incredible work.”

“I’ve always believed that a nurturing culture holds the power to unlock our fullest potential,” said Samantha. “Leo Burnett functions with a profound sense of purpose and understanding among its clients and people and I’m excited to harness this energy to tackle real-world business challenges through the work.”

Leo Burnett has also named award-winning creative duo, Nick Howard and Nick Stoner as SVP, creative directors. The two recently joined the agency from Wieden+Kennedy, after both working at DDB and FCB, to support the creative direction and vision for several clients. Most recently, the pair’s creative leadership for Clash of the Clans’ Clash of the Past won two Grand Prix at Cannes.