Jaimes Leggett is stepping down as CEO of M&C Saatchi Australasia after seven years of "record growth".
He will be replaced by Justin Graham, partner and chief strategy officer, described by Leggett as one of the best strategic thinkers in the market.
Leggett originally planned to make an announcement at the end of his equity agreement in July but brought it forward because of the coronavirus crisis.
The change in CEOs will give the business continuity of leadership during the economic fallout from the pandemic.
The Australian operation has had double-digit growth over each of Leggett's seven years, insulating the local business from issues at the London head office which has issued a series of profit warnings.
Leggett also launched multiple new businesses including This. Film Studio and acquired media agency Bohemia.
The business was also recognised with multiple AdNews Agency of the Year awards. This year the agency is a finalist for Creative Agency of the Year.
"The past seven years have been nothing short of inspiring," Leggett says.
"I have worked with some extraordinary people – both within our business and in our client partnerships – and am incredibly proud of what we've achieved.
“Thanks to the hard work, talent and passion of everyone at M&C Saatchi, we have produced an amazing body of work, hired some great talent and seen consistent year-on-year growth across the group.
“I’ve loved being a part of M&C Saatchi. There’s no perfect time to make a move like this, but with the rate of accelerating change in the world right now, it’s important that we get ahead of it and allow the new leadership team to set the platform for the business’ future.”
M&C Saatchi Global CEO Moray MacLennan: “Thank you to Jaimes for driving the record-breaking growth we have seen in the Australian business. He, more than most, embodies our global position as home to the creative entrepreneur.”
Leggett described his replacement, Justin Graham, as a gun.
"He’s smart, good around the work and great with people," says Leggett.
"We’ve had a close partnership for the last six years. He’s one of the best strategic thinkers in the market, and I’ve no doubt he will continue to deliver that direction to both ours and our clients’ business.”
Graham joined M&C Saatchi in 2014 after working at Droga5 Sydney, BBDO in New York and Leo Burnett.
“It has been an absolute pleasure to work alongside Jaimes," says Graham.
"I’d like to thank him for his long-time partnership, his guidance, his friendship, and most notably his encouragement to transition me into an increasingly operational role over the last few years. On a personal note, I will miss him in the office, but I am excited about the next big chapter for him.
“The opportunity to lead the M&C Saatchi Group in Australia and NZ is an honour due to its legacy in this market and unique approach to partnering with some of the nation's most iconic brands. And what a time of change in the world to be stepping into the role.
“I believe there is enormous opportunity to create value for our clients, more so now than ever, and that will only be possible by continuing to attract and build talent unlike any other. To bring the Saatchi philosophy to the next chapter of how we partner with the business leaders of today and tomorrow is an incredible privilege.”
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