Samsung Electronics Australia has appointed for Leo Burnett Singapore MD Josh Grace as its new chief marketing officer, effective immediately. Grace fills a void left by Philip Newton, who left the business last August.
Grace will oversee marketing for the electronics giant and be responsible for creting programs to "drive innovation in its brand communications" as well as campaigns for IT and Mobile (mobile and wearable products and services), Consumer Electronics (TV, audio and appliances), and pioneer programs to support emerging forms of connected technology and IoT.
In addition to products, services and emerging technology, Grace will spearhead the evolution of Samsung Electronics Australia’s partnership programs, which currently includes Qantas, the Sydney Opera House as Principal Partner and Netball Australia as Innovation Partner.
“I’m thrilled to take on this position at Samsung Electronics Australia and work with such an inspiring global brand and passionate team of marketers and business leaders right here in Australia,” Grace said.
“This is an incredibly important time for the brand as we explore fresh and innovative ways to reach our customers and communicate what makes Samsung different and why our approach to customers is so special.”
Grace most recently worked as the APAC regional marketing director for health company Abbott and has previously served as Leos Singapore MD and its Australian chief operating officer.
The appointment comes as Samsung drives major global and local brand programs based on the theme of 'Do What You Can’t', which is the core message in supporting the recently launched Galaxy S9 and S9+ smartphones.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to return to Australia to be part of a brand journey that I have been following for some time," Grace added. "I am inspired by Samsung’s culture of innovation and pushing the barriers of what’s possible. I look forward to working within such a driven team.”
Samsung Electronics Australia president Harry Lee said Grace's experience in the Asia-Pacific region in high-level marketing roles "is second to none".
"We look forward to supporting him in driving the brand forward in Australia," Lee added.
Grace assumes the CMO role at Samsung after returning to Sydney from Singapore where he lived for six years and held the position as regional marvarvarketing Officer for health company Abbott, and Managing Director of Leo Burnett, Singapore. Prior to living in Singapore he held the position of chief operating officer of Leo Burnett, Sydney.
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