DDB Group Melbourne has promoted Giles Watson to ECD
In his new role, Watson will lead DDB Group Melbourne's creative direction, working closely with CCO Psembi Kinstan.
Watson joined the agency as a creative director and quickly built out the creative leadership team.
He was promoted to deputy ECD in April last year, bringing his ambition to help grow the agency's headcount to more than 100 and produce award-winning work for clients.
Watson was the driving force behind many of the agency's highly awarded campaigns, including Movember's 'Mancestry' and “the Mo is Calling”, Porsche's 'Taycan Arcade', NGV's 'Creative Index', and most recently the global launch of the “University of Dyslexic Thinking”.
Prior to joining DDB Group Melbourne, Watson worked at Clemenger BBDO and Howatson+Co, delivering campaigns like Matilda Bay's 'Rejected Ales' and Snickers' 'Hunger Insurance'.
Watson's promotion follows DDB Group Melbourne’s continued growth, both within its client stable, and its creative team, and the promotion of Matt Pearce to CSO.
Kinstan said Giles is the best in the business.
“He is the epitome of the modern creative that champions every medium and understands the power of a big idea,” he said.
“No-one works harder to get to the most original and effective work – every part of our business is improved by his leadership.
“He’s superbly strategic, an incredible role model and a deeply trusted partner to our clients.”
DDB Group Melbourne general manager Khia Croy said Watson is the perfect person for the job.
“From our first moments working together - many moons ago - I have always had a great amount of respect for Giles, both professionally and personally,” she said.
“He is, and always has been, the embodiment of DDB's 'Talented and Nice' philosophy - there is simply no greater partner for our clients, or leader for our team.”
Watson said he is thrilled to be moving into his new role.
“I was lucky enough to have joined a collection of incredibly ambitious minds here at DDB Melbourne - people who inspire me every day,” he said.
“I couldn’t be more excited (or intimidated) to now have this opportunity to join them in shaping our next chapter.”
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