M&C Saatchi has appointed Leo Burnett's Andy DiLallo into the newly-created role of chief creative officer, following a global search.
DiLallo had been Leo Burnett's chief creative officer since 2007 and has previously held roles at JWT and Saatchi &Saatchi. He appeared fifth on the Big Won World's top chief creative officer rankings.
The appointment will see DiLallo join M&C Saatchi's leadership team of CEO Jaimes Leggett and chief strategy officer Justin Graham. It will also allow the agency's regional creative director Tom McFarlane to focus on key businesses within the agency's global network.
Both Ben Welsh and Paul Taylor will continue in their roles as executive creative directors in Sydney and Melbourne respectively.
“After searching locally and internationally for over 12 months, Andy remained our target,”McFarlane said.
“With CEO Jaimes Leggett now well and truly settled in and doing a remarkable job, along with chief strategy officer Justin Graham, now is the perfect time to step up a gear creatively.
“His creative credentials, leadership experience and global perspective made him the perfect candidate for the job.”
DiLallo said: “I believe the only thing to fear is complacency. Change is something to embrace.
“I’m ready to help Jaimes and Justin lead M&C Saatchi as they continue to grow and shape Australia’s biggest brands.”
Leo Burnett Sydney MD Pete Bosilkovski said: "Andy has been an important part of our team for a long time and while we’ll certainly miss him, we’re also thrilled for his next move.
"Change brings new opportunity for the company and with succession planning already in place, we’re excited about the new creative chapter it opens."
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