James Cooper.
Independent design studio Universal Favourite (UF) has appointed James Cooper head of creative partnerships.
“James’ depth of experience and diverse skillset is uniquely equipped for where Universal Favourite is heading next,” said UF founder and executive creative director, Dari Isrealstam.
“As UF continues to grow internationally, James will play a central role in shaping our next creative chapter - we couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”
The announcement follows the launch of UF’s Butter Baby brand in Indonesia, new client partnerships with Sonos and YouTube in the US, The Volte and eBay in Australia.
Cooper joins Universal Favourite with 17 years of experience. He spent five years with For The People internationally. He launched the agency in the US and New Zealand, and led the studio’s strategy and storytelling teams in Australia.
He was previously director of FutureBrand Auckland at FCB New Zealand, co-founder of non-alcoholic craft beverage brand Bootleggers, and board advisor to Switch Motorcycles.
Cooper’s career began in client-side marketing as a leadership graduate of New Zealand’s Spark, before joining the team at Interbrand’s Sydney studio to rebrand Telstra in Australia and SKY Television in New Zealand.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the world-class team and wonderful humans at Universal Favourite," said Cooper.
“For brands to endure while maintaining creative relevance in a rapidly-evolving commercial and cultural landscape, they need creative partners that don’t follow trends, but create them.
“UF has proven itself as that partner and it means the world to join the agency on this journey.
“I believe creativity is currency for brands, but so much value is being left on the table. My role is to help guide leaders and give brands the agency to make calculated, creative decisions and win."
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