Former Ogilvy Sydney chief executive Stuart O'Brien has launched brand strategy and design agency Houston in a joint venture with STW.
O'Brien will have an undisclosed stake in the business. The agency will focus on brand promotion, rebrands, mergers, repositioning and launches. Houston will offer creative strategy, brand consulting, design, retail communications, and internal and corporate communications.
O'Brien was formerly chief executive of Ogilvy Sydney, a role he relinquished when the agency network restructured in May this year under executive chairman Tom Moult. The restructure saw Melbourne boss Andrew Baxter become national chief executive.
At the time, O'Brien was said to be taking on a national strategy role within Ogilvy. Former Happy Soldiers partner Mark Sareff was hired in August as national head of strategy.
STW chief executive Michael Connaghan said the formation of Houston has been in the pipeline for most of the year. The agency already has undisclosed foundation clients.
O'Brien said in a statement: "Working on and responding to strategic business issues is what I love doing and where my strongest skills lie. I feel extremely grateful to have this opportunity to pursue a business model that will allow me to do what I love to do, and what I want to do – and part of that is being very hands-on in all aspects of the company.
“In addition I really enjoy being part of the STW group and this is a perfect opportunity to pursue something innovative and entrepreneurial, while offering clients what they want; accountability and scale.”
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