Sophie Sykes.
72andSunny Sydney has appointed Sophie Sykes managing director and Alexandra Nel executive strategy director as CEO Ross Berthinussen heads back to the UK after six years.
Sykes joins from her role as client partner at Howatson+Company and Nel as head of strategy at Telstra's +61.
“After seven years in Sydney it’s awesome to see the continued impact of our brand as we build for the next stage of cultural impact,” 72andSunny’s international president Chris Kay said.
“Modern Australia needs a new generation leadership team who are here to play to win, and Sophie, Alex, and Wez are exactly that and the future looks sunny.”
The new leadership team comes at a time of recent wins including Big W, AFL, Cadillac, and Princess Cruises, plus the recent hiring of Wez Hawes as CCO, a new creative department, and a move to a new larger studio space in The Rocks.
Both Sykes and Nel will report to Chris Kay and international executive strategy director Maria Galleriu.
“To continue the trajectory 72andSunny is on right now, we knew we had to swing big and I couldn’t be more excited by the impending arrivals of Sophie and Alexandra,” 72andSunny’s chief creative officer Wez Hawes said.
“They both have a wealth of experience and proven track records in creating modern, culturally impactful work, while also being instrumental in building the agencies that create it.
72andSunny’s international executive strategy director Maria Galleriu said there's creative power in new chapters.
“We're bringing in two leaders who have heart and passion for unlocking what the 72andSunny brand of strategic and creative excellence can do next in the ANZ market,” Galleriu said.
“The possibilities are endless when you dream big like they do."
Berthinussen returns to the UK for 12 months to train to be a coach with a specific focus on conscious leadership.
“I’m super grateful for my time with 72andSunny,” Berthinussen said.
“I’ve learned so much and loved experiencing first-hand the rocket fuel of running a creative company powered by a belief in Optimism.
“I’m stoked to hand over to such an all-star team and can’t wait to see where Wez, Alex and Sophie take 72andSunny with our team of legends and wonderful client partners.”
Kay said that Berthinussen has been a strong driver of its core value of optimism at 72andSunny.
“He’s also been a key leader laying the foundations for this next stage of growth and for that we have immense gratitude and respect.
“He’s helped build something that is special, and we are excited to see him go onto his next life chapter.
“From everyone at 72andSunny, we wish him, and his family, all the best back in the UK.”
Hawes said It’s been an absolute pleasure partnering with Berthinussen.
“He’s one of the smartest and most compassionate modern leaders I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with.
“If optimism is our superpower at 72andSunny, it’s leaders like Ross, and now Sophie and Alexandra, who help to turbo boost it.”
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