Smith leaves Sam for top job at Windle Design
Ian Smith, creative director of Derby-based SAM, has left the agency to take charge of Paul Windle Design, following the sad news of Paul Windle’s death last month. Smith, a close friend of Windle, will now work on clients such as Disney, Warner Bros, Tomy Toys and Ebac.
Commenting on the move, Smith said: “Paul was my mentor. When his son Dean asked me to take the reins, it was a good opportunity to become involved in a strong creative community and return to my North East roots.”
The agency has a strong pedigree in illustration. However, Smith is keen to build the design and advertising client base in order to make best use of his experience. Smith, who was at SAM for eighteen months, started his career with Bushell & Windle in 1987.
Commenting on his departure from SAM, he stated: “My task was to raise the creative levels and profile of the agency, which I think I did. I have every faith in the agency building on the foundations and winning more awards.”
Smith has now been replaced at SAM by former JWT London senior creative Anna Moult, who has relocated to the East Midlands.