Movers & Shakers: Publicis, Apparent, Mash, Octagon, DDB, PEDESTRIAN.TV

By AdNews | 6 October 2023

It's hard to keep up with all the latest moves across media, marketing and advertising, so we've made a list. Check out some of the biggest moves this week.

Maurice Riley promoted to chief data officer at Publicis

Publicis Groupe has promoted Maurice Riley to the new position of chief data officer in Australia and New Zealand. Riley will partner closely with agency CEOs and data leads, to further elevate the data specialisms and products. With a focus on creative excellence, he will also work with Publicis Groupe ANZ’s chief creative officer, Dave Bowman, to leverage proprietary data and technology solutions and agency specialisms, to continue to drive connected data, media and creative ideas.

Apparent makes three specialist hires to amplify full service offering

Independent full service agency Apparent has appointed three specialist senior team members. Jennifer Greatrex joins Apparent as group account director leading the global Google Cloud Portfolio. With experience in bringing the power of creativity and strategic insight into all campaigns and programs, she has worked in the US and across the APAC region on B2B tech clients such as IBM, Microsoft, HP, SAS, Salesforce, Workato, Forescout, Optus Enterprise and Telstra.  

Creative services platform Mash has appointed Genie Guranani as the company’s executive drag queen

This role will see Gurnani join Mash's global pool of operating partners; a panel of seasoned industry experts that works with Mash’s leadership team on commercial, operational, and creative strategy.Gurnani is a global creative leader with more than 13 years of experience, working with agencies such as Leo Burnett and J.Walter Thompson, and global entertainment brands including Netflix and VICE Media. Gurnani is tasked with bringing drag queen energy to Mash; leading brand programming, content, and activations that showcase their nuanced cultural understanding and shine a spotlight on the diverse cultural expertise of Mash’s creative network.

Guy Futcher appointed ECD at Octagon APAC

Octagon, the global creative, integrated marketing, and talent management agency in sports and entertainment, has appointed Guy Futcher as executive creative director of Octagon APAC. Futcher will lead all creative development, production, planning, and strategy for Octagon’s accounts in the region, including Mastercard, Standard Chartered, and Unilever.

Australian Marty O’Halloran becomes DDB Worldwide chairman

Omnicom has promoted Australian Marty O’Halloran to chairman of DDB Worldwide. O’Halloran has been a leader within the DDB network for close to four decades and took over the role of Global CEO in 2020. Alex Lubar, the COO of DDB Worldwide, will replace O'Halloran's current role as global CEO.

Alex Bruce-Smith appointed head of editorial at PEDESTRIAN.TV

Alex Bruce-Smith has been appointed head of editorial at youth publication PEDESTRIAN.TV, starting early November. Bruce-Smith brings more than a decade of experience in digital media to the role, including two years as PEDESTRIAN.TV’s deputy editor. Most recently, she was heading up the digital teams of ELLE and Marie Claire Australia as the digital managing editor.

Solstice Media adds three

South Australian-based national publishing company Solstice Media has appointed Eliza Coulls event and partnership manager, James Taylor senior digital designer and Emily Taliangis content lead. With previous roles at institutions such as David Jones in Melbourne and involvement in the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, Coulls joins the team in elevating and growing events and continuing to establish strategic partnerships that align with Solstice Media products.

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