SYDNEY: JWT Australasia CEO Noel Magnus is to step down after two and a half years in the role and will be replaced by JWT Melbourne MD John Gutteridge.
JWT President Michael Maedel said: “Noel and I have been discussing his wish to move on for some time now, and have prepared for a succession.
“We are grateful for the very successful two and a half years he spent managing and rejuvenating the agency across Australasia.”
Magnus, who assumed the post of CEO in January 2008, undertook a
complete restructure of the agency, including the recent launch of JWT
Property. During his tenure, the agency won some significant accounts
including the Smirnoff regional account, and several major Johnson
Johnson brands. He will remain in the post until 1 August.
Magnus said: “It's been a very busy and rewarding time for all of us at JWT Australasia and I'm very proud of what we have achieved together. I feel confident that I'm leaving the business in great shape and in great hands.”
Gutteridge joined JWT in 1999, where he worked in the London office for four years. In 2003, he moved to JWT Melbourne and a year later took up the role of managing director at JWT New Zealand. Most recently, Gutteridge was managing director of JWT Melbourne, a role he has held since 2008.
Maedel said: “John’s experience in managing a diverse portfolio across several categories and blue chip brands, as well as his deep understanding of and history with JWT are essential to ensuring our offerings continue to benefit both our clients and the agency at large."
Gutteridge will be based in Sydney. A new managing director of JWT Melbourne will be announced in "due course".
Gutteridge said: “I am very excited to take on this new challenge in a market for which I have such a strong affinity. I have big ambitions for the agency here in ANZ. Together with some brilliant talent we have established in the region, I have no doubt we will build on JWT Australasia’s momentum and create a truly outstanding agency for the future.”
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