WPP's Essence Names Brisbane Managing Director

In Australia, WPP-owned global data and measurement-driven media agency Essence has appointed Simon Pugh as Managing Director for Brisbane.

Essence combines data science, media and customer experience skills to help clients build connections between brands and consumers. Last year, the business launched a service called Data Health Check consulting, to help brands develop their audience data strategies.

Pugh (pictured) joins with 25 years' experience in leadership roles at Publicis Groupe, Omnicom and Dentsu in New York, Sydney and San Francisco. Most recently, he was Global Client Leader for Publicis Groupe, and earlier he led West Coast operations for PHD in the United States. In his new role, Pugh is tasked with ensuring that the Brisbane team continues to innovate and evolve their offering across data, analytics, media strategy and creative.

Separately, Theo Zisoglou, former Executive Director of the Brisbane agency, takes on an expanded remit as Chief Media Officer, spanning planning and investment across the group in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Celia Wright joins from Spark Foundry, to take on the newly created role of Chief Growth Officer, while also leading cultural change initiatives.

Pat Crowley, CEO of Essence Australia, comments: 'These three appointments are critical as we shape the new, expanded Essence in Australia, amplify the agency's pioneering spirit, and help clients win in the new economy. Simon and Celia bring an injection of exceptional new talent that will complement the skill sets that already sit within the agency. Theo's passion for the craft of investment makes him perfectly placed to take on this newly created role and play a bigger role in shaping this fundamental discipline in our agency'.

Web site: www.essenceglobal.com .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.