M+C Saatchi Group ANZ has appointed Simon Wassef group chief strategy officer.
Wassef joins after two years at Clemenger BBDO as chief strategy and experience officer, developing integrated platforms for HCF, Great Northern Brewing Company, Solo Energy, Hard Rated, Carlton Dry, MYER, Samsung, the TAC and the Federal Government.
He was part of the team that added Kmart, COLORBOND®, L’Oreal and NSW Police Force to the agency.
“I build teams and capabilities for modern businesses who want to win,” said Wassef.
“M+C is the best place to build: grown up, in control of its destiny and 100% focused on client success. And Dani and Emma are the best people to build with. I’m really excited.”
Wassef has also held senior strategy roles at AKQA London and Sydney, TBWA\Chiat\Day Los Angeles, Droga5 Sydney and R/GA London.
He is a member of the ACA’s CREATE SPACE steerco, and teaches AdSchool’s Advanced Strategy course.
His appointment rounds out M+C Saatchi’s new leadership team in Australia and New Zealand, under chief executive officer Dani Bassil.
Wassef will work closely with group chief creative officer Emma Robbins, managing director Tanya Vragalis, chief marketing officer Anita Zanesco, managing partner, passions & PR, Rhian Mason, and managing director M+C Saatchi Consulting and Re, Ben Harrison.
It also follows several recent hires, including Topher Jones as client experience director, Louise Rutherford as client partner, and Jeremy Hogg as national executive creative director.
“I’m thrilled to have Simon join us,” said Bassil.
“He brings a rare mix of intelligence, empathy and creative drive that will add so much to our leadership team and our clients’ businesses.”
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 us a line at adnews@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.