OLIVER Sharpens Client-First Approach with Key New Hire from RAPP

OLIVER strengthens its client-centric approach with the hire of CRM and customer engagement expert Ed Lee.

The former managing director of RAPP will join OLIVER’s senior leadership team to elevate its client services operation across the UK, continuing the company’s legacy as its clients’ closest partner and strong vision for transformation.

Having held director positions at major agencies, including MullenLowe, Ogilvy and Saatchi & Saatchi, Lee will use his extensive CX and CRM expertise to help brands and their in-house agencies reach customers in an increasingly data-rich, technology-led landscape.

Amina Folarin, OLIVER UK CEO, said, "During a challenging economic environment, the tendency is to chase new business and become complacent about existing clients. We know that it is at these times, however, that being our client’s closest partner is paramount, enabling them to take a more strategic approach to deliverables and invest in the parts of marketing that will make a real difference in the short term, and further down the line when recovery begins. Ed recognizes the importance of innovating where it makes the biggest impact for brands, both today and tomorrow.”

(L-R: Ed Lee, Ed Howarth, Amina Folarin)

Lee will take executive responsibility for some of OLIVER’s largest clients, with a particular focus on guiding those undertaking major marketing transformations. He believes that striking the right balance of people, process, and AI technology will open a whole host of new opportunities for brands to deliver better marketing to customers, faster, and for less. This is the first in a series of hires for the agency, as it looks to bolster its success beyond an already impressive 2024.

Lee said, “I’ve long been of the view that the most powerful creative marketing ecosystems are being built in-house. Twenty years ago, OLIVER broke the mould; and today, powered by industry-leading gen AI capability, our model has never been more relevant. As traditional agencies struggle to navigate their own operational chaos, clients are understandably frustrated – hard fought budget is being wasted and talent remains tragically untapped. As a leader, I have always championed client-centricity, so I could not be more excited to be joining such a pioneering group that genuinely put client success at the heart of their business.”

OLIVER’s proprietary technology streamlines operations in the custom marketing ecosystems it builds for brands. It integrates effortlessly with existing systems, enabling precision targeting and real-time optimization tailored to each brand’s needs.

Ed Howarth, chief client officer and deputy CEO, added, "Ed's track record with clients and his passion for creativity will see him play a leading role in driving OLIVER’s mission to always operate as our clients’ closest partner. Ed brings fresh eyes to finding solutions that are efficient and effective. He’s a brilliant addition to the team.”

This strategic hire follows several high-profile new business wins, including securing a leading financial services brand’s Customer Engagement and CRM scope. OLIVER was also recently shortlisted as B2B Agency of the Year at The B2B Marketing Awards, celebrating excellence in creativity and commercial effectiveness.

Lee’s role begins with immediate effect.