M&C Saatchi-backed Ugly closes after 18 months

Lindsay Bennett
By Lindsay Bennett | 31 October 2018
 
Hazelle Klønhammer

Just 18 months after it launched, M&C Saatchi-backed Ugly has shut up shop with CEO Hazelle Klønhammer departing, AdNews can reveal.

It comes just months after creative partner Gary McCreadie exited the agency, resurfacing at 303 MullenLowe.

AdNews understands Klønhammer, who returned to Australia to lead the agency after founding Anamoly Amsterdman, is currently meeting with Sydney agencies in perusal of her next move.

Ross Berthinussen, also a founding partner, is currently working as an independent brand consultant, according to his LinkedIn.

Klønhammer, Berthinussen were approached for comment. M&C Saatchi did not respond prior to publishing.

uglyMcCreadie, Klønhammer and Berthinussen

When Ugly launched in April 2017, it described itself as an “ideas company”, boasting a progressive model in comparison to traditional agency structures. 

The agency was partly owned by M&C Saatchi but operated independently. Both McCreadie and Berthinussen both previously worked at M&C Saatchi.

At the time, Klønhammer said the agency was "actively recruiting", but only herself and Berthinussen are listed as employees on LinkedIn.

Ugly won the creative account for Uno last Decemeber, launching a new brand positioning for the home loan provider.

It also worked on clothing brand Ozmosis, producing a campaign that encouraged people to show their scars from surfing or skating accidents.

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