DDB Group Melbourne has appointed Mike Napolitano as managing director.
He replaces Kate Sterling who departed in June to join artificial intelligence (AI) messaging platform LivePerson as its ANZ client director.
Napolitano joins the agency after nine years at TBWA Melbourne, the last five as managing director overseeing the agency's growth and success during this time.
With more than 20 years in the industry, he has worked across most categories, including FMCG, automotive, financial services, government, and sport and entertainment for some of the biggest brands locally and abroad.
His work has been recognised by global award juries for both creativity and effectiveness.
"I've had nine great years at TBWA helping build one of the best agencies in the country. It's always hard to leave a great team, but it's time for a new challenge," says Napolitano.
“I've admired DDB Melbourne and its growth over the last 12 months. I am thrilled with the opportunity to lead the Melbourne office and create award-winning, effective work for clients like Coles, Kmart, Dulux Group and Porsche. I want DDB Melbourne to attract an unfair share of the best talent and even more great brand partners for us to work with."
DDB Group Australia CEO Andrew Little says Napolitano is the perfect fit to lead the agency.
"Like everyone at DDB, he has that perfect balance of being talented and nice. With a shared ambition of enabling people to do the best work of their career and track record of helping brands achieve incredible growth, there could be no one better at the helm," says Little.
“We can't wait for him to continue the strong growth our Melbourne business has experienced this year, despite the COVID-19 challenges. I know that Jess Hughes, Mossy and Jess Allison are delighted to have him on board, as is the rest of the Australian management team."
Napolitano has been replaced by Ricci Meldrum, who was promoted to managing director of TBWA Melbourne after more than six years at the agency.
TBWA Melbourne CEO Kimberlee Wells says Napolitano made great contributions to the agency during his tenure.
"Mike has had nine great years with the agency. We thank him for the contributions he has made to the growth of our people, our clients and our agency," says Wells.
"He leaves with our full support to pursue a new challenge as DDB Melbourne's managing director and are pleased he will remain within the Omnicom Group."
Napolitano hire comes off the back of a period of growth for DDB Melbourne, winning both Coles and Kmart in 2020.
He will commence his role in October.
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