Saatchi & Saatchi has drafted its London managing director Michael Rebelo to take the reins at the troubled Sydney office, with John Foley to depart.
Rebelo will become chief executive and replaces Foley, who will relocate to Singapore in an expanded regional role within the network.
Originally from Melbourne, Rebelo has been in the Saatchi & Saatchi network for 15 years and was previously general manager of the Sydney and Wellington offices. Rebelo has also worked in the Singapore office as chief executive before his tenure in London.
Saatchi & Saatchi Sydney has been plagued with staff departures including executive creative director Steve Back who decamped to Ogilvy Singapore last year.
Creative lead Steve Jackson left in March to join Droga5, while national planning director David O'Loughlin left for a client role with South Australian Tourism Commission. Staffers Amy Hollier, Joe Churchward and Julian Melhuish have all departed in the past 12 months.
Last year, the agency was dropped from the Lion roster, with the Tooheys New and Hahn brands moving to BMF and Publicis Mojo.
Saatchi & Saatchi Asia Pacific chairman and chief executive, Chris Foster, said: “I’ve worked with Mike on and off for the better part of 15 years and he’s the perfect guy for the job. His experience, track record of success and creative leadership coupled with his understanding of the market and passion for the job, make him the right person to lead Saatchi Sydney."
Rebelo said: "I’ve had my eye on this role for some time, actually since 1997, when I first started at Saatchi & Saatchi as an account manager! So it’s a right honor to be given the opportunity to lead the company in Australia.
"My formula is straightforward; create world-class ideas for our clients, developed and produced by world-class talent. This will be an exciting time for us as we have some fresh plans for the agency, coupled with some very passionate people."
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