Jessica Lauria.
UM Australia has appointed Jessica Lauria managing director of its Sydney operation.
Lauria brings 25 years of experience in senior global brand marketing and leadership roles. Most recently she served as CMO of OoMee and previously as head of brand marketing at Gopuff, where she led global brand strategy, advertising, media, social and innovation. Earlier roles include S'well, Hint and Chobani.
She began her career in advertising at BBDO, Berlin Cameron and Anomaly, working on brands including Coca-Cola, Sephora and Procter & Gamble.
"Rather than following the traditional path, we prioritised finding a leader who not only deeply understands the real impact agency output has on marketers but brings a fresh perspective to UM,” said Stevie Douglas-Neal, CEO, UM Australia.
"With extensive client-side experience and international kudos, Jess brings first-hand insight into the pressures marketers are navigating in 2026, and the role UM can play as true business partners.
"Our ambition is to be the media agency that best understands our clients and brings the full spectrum of thinking to drive business impact; Jess is a powerful reflection of that and we're excited about the energy and leadership she will bring to UM Sydney."
Lauria said UM's ambition is to be the most impactful agency in its client's ecosystems.
“That starts with deeply understanding our client's business needs, pressures and routes to growth,” she said.
"I've always believed media is one of the most powerful levers a business has, not just for reach, but for brand-building, culture-shaping and creating impact at scale. Right now, we're in one of the most dynamic moments the industry has ever seen.
"I'm excited to join UM Sydney to help shape the strategy and bring my experience to the table to ensure creativity and media are truly connected to drive meaningful growth for our clients."
Douglas-Neal said Lauria's appointment was part of a broader investment in strengthening leadership across the agency.
"Jess's appointment is a huge part in UM's commitment to invest in our brand, and she will not only build momentum in UM Sydney to support our existing clients and team, but she will also help us transform and grow at pace,” Douglas-Neal said.
"Our team deserve it, our clients deserve it, and we're excited for the future."
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