Draft loses sales promotion boss as Mulvey quits to set up own SP agency

Mulvey, who has been with the company since December 1999, announced his decision earlier this month, revealing to Draft’s staff members that he is to set up a new agency.

However, it is unclear whether any staff will be joining him at the new agency. Prior to its take over by Draft, Mulvey was joint owner of the independent integrated marketing company The Boroughloch Agency.

This is the second blow to have hit the agency in as many months, with the managing director of the direct marketing side of the business, Gary Smith, announcing his intention to leave the company at the end of the year.

Industry speculation suggests that the two could be set to join forces in forthcoming months, but neither Smith nor Mulvey was available to comment.

One industry source said: “It seems like strange timing. For two senior people to quit at around the same time is a big coincidence.

“This could be a big hit for Draft as both Ward and Gary are first-rate account men and could take clients with them if they go it alone. I am sure some staff will follow as well, as they are very good people managers.”

Mulvey is believed to be on gardening leave as he works out the last two weeks of his notice.

Draft WorldWide’s website currently lists 20 clients, although some of these are thought to have already left the company to go to rival agencies. Industry rumours suggest that some of the sales promotion clients will leave to join Mulvey at his new agency in forthcoming months.

Managing director of the agency, Andrew Smith, was unavailable for comment as The Drum went to press.