Publicis is launching its advertising hot shop Marcel in Australia with David Nobay, formerly of Droga5 as the founder and creative chairman.
Following the closure of Droga5 earlier this year after ever years hard slog, Nobay has resurfaced as the founder and creative chairman of the soon to launch agency.
Heineken-owned Tiger Beer, a former Droga5 Sydney client, is the founding client. Last year the shop launched 'Tiger Uncage' for the Singaporean beer brand.
David Nobay said: “When Droga5 closed its doors here, I had two options: either lay back and take a breather or get straight back in the game. A single call from Paris made my decision a simple one. Marcel is special. Anne de Maupeou, Marcel’s creative leader in France is someone I instantly connected with. And the fact that Iona, my Strategic Partner next year, is a “Marcel original” clinched it. Game on.”
The agency will launch in January and Nobay will join the global Publicis creative board. He will also take the role of Creative Chairman of Publicis Worldwide Australia, and work closely with Publicis CEO Andrew Baxter.
Arthur Sadoun, global CEO of Publicis Worldwide, commented: “Marcel is a truly unique offer, a creative hotshop that puts the best of digital at the service of great ideas for the benefit of our clients. Nobby’s talent and experience make him the perfect person to lead Marcel Sydney in this exciting new step.”
Earlier this year, former Marcel Paris head of strategy Iona Macgregor, joined Publicis in Australia as chief strategy officer.
Marcel has its roots in digital creative, and takes its name from Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet, the original founder of Publicis. It has offices in Paris, new York, Sau Paulo and Shanghai. The shop will be based in Publicis' existing Sydney offices.
Andrew Baxter, Publicis Worldwide Australia’s Chief Executive Officer said: “We’ve been considering the idea of launching Marcel in this market for some time, but had been waiting to find the right leader. When Nobby became available, it was a no-brainer”.
Further creative hires will be announced shortly.
A bit of background on Nobay:
28-year career
40 Cannes Lions
London, New York, Hong Kong, Melbourne & Sydney
Saatchi & Saatchi, Droga5
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 me a line at rosiebaker@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. Need a job? Visit adnewsjobs.com.au.