DDB Sydney has announced the end of its 13-year partnership with Westpac, effective from February 2025, AdNews can reveal.
The big four bank put its creative account on review in September. DDB Sydney has held the account since 2012.
AdNews revealed in September the shortlist included Howatson+Co, DDB, Accenture and Publicis' Saatchi & Saatchi.
The winner of the pitch is currently unknown.
Westpac chief brand and marketing officer Annabel Fribence said, while a new agency is yet to be appointed, the brand will continue to work closely with the DDB team over the coming months.
"I want to personally thank the DDB Sydney team for their 13-year partnership with Westpac and the contribution the team has made to our business and brand," Fribence told AdNews.
"Westpac made the decision earlier this year to move in a new direction with its creative account."
DDB's work with Westpac HERE
DDB's executive leadership team said it’s a bittersweet farewell as its time with the bank has resulted in some of the agency’s proudest moments.
"Over the years we defied the banking category with emotionally charged work that connected with Australians," the leadership team said.
"We saw the brand through leadership changes, a Royal Commission, the global pandemic, and a 200th anniversary; we co-created products, services and platforms, and had the privilege of shining a light on the brave men and women of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
"Saying we’re proud of this relationship would be an understatement, we loved shaping this brand and believe it always showed in our work.
"To our clients, past and present, many of whom have become lifelong friends: you always asked the best of us and fought for the integrity of the work when it counted – we say a sincere thank you.
"And to the many, many people of DDB, who over 13 years put their hearts, toil and talent into this long journey, we couldn’t be prouder of what we achieved together.
"For us, now a new chapter begins.
"With Australia’s most passionate, experienced and creatively-awarded financial services team, we are ready and looking forward to the new partnerships to come."
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.