Ex-DDB chief creative Toby Talbot is returning to Saatchi & Saatchi for a newly created role in its Auckland and Wellington offices. He takes on the chief creative officer spot and starts later this month.
Talbot has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry, holding top creative roles at both DDB Sydney and Whybin\TBWA NZ.
Last year he left DDB after a two year stint for a managing partner position at boutique agency, Assignment Auckland.
Saatchi & Saatchi NZ MD Paul Wilson says with Tablot in place, the agency has a stronger creative proposition.
“Talbot is a proven creative leader with extensive international and local experience. He is a fresh, progressive creative thinker and all round top bloke,” he says.
“We had a great time working together in the past so I’m really looking forward to working with him again. With Toby, Gus, Corey and the rest of our talented team in place, we now have an even more compelling creative force to offer our clients.”
He has won numerous local and international awards including Campaign Asia’s Creative of the Year for Australia and New Zealand. He was also behind the most awarded mobile campaign in the world this year, #comeonin for Sydney Opera House.
Talbot’s new position sees him come back together with Wilson, who he has worked with in his previous roles.
"I last worked with Paul when, ironically, I'd just left Saatchi & Saatchi. We have long talked about working together again so it's great to finally make it happen,” he says.
“Paul and his senior team have created something really compelling; a truly collaborative, inclusive culture that not only am I drawn to, but so it appears, new clients are too. Creatively, Gus and Corey have done a fantastic job and now I am looking forward to building on this with them, forging new partnerships and generally getting stuck in.”
The move follows a greater restructure of the Publicis leadership team, which saw Saatchi & Saatchi Australia CEO Michael Rebelo promoted to CEO of the Publicis Communications Group in Australia and New Zealand and Leo Burnett Melbourne boss Melinda Geertz and Publics Worldwide Australia boss Andrew Baxter promoted.
Rebelo adds: “Toby’s appointment further reinforces and acknowledges the momentum we have seen at Saatchi & Saatchi New Zealand and the commitment we have to this market.
"Paul has done a great job leading our agency and shaping this into an exciting creative business that’s fit for the future. Now with Toby joining the team, we’re in an even stronger position to grow and develop our offering in New Zealand.”
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.