Mark Gorman
Mark Gorman is leaving IAS Smarts, where he has been chief executive for the last two years, in what the company has described as an ‘amicable and mutual decision’. He does not have a job to go to.
Gorman joined the agency in 2004 when it was Citigates Smarts and took on the role of chief executive. During his time at the agency, he helped oversee a change of ownership when it merged with IAS in Manchester and Catalyst in London - creating IAS Smarts.
Rob Morrice, group chief executive of IAS Smarts, said; “I am disappointed that Mark is leaving. I hoped he would stay to take IAS Smarts through to the next stage of our development, which is about moving forward. That hasn’t happened, so I wish him the best of luck.”
Gorman’s day-to-day responsibilities will be split between Helen Hourston, MD of its Edinburgh office, Andy McArthur, planning director, Pete Martin, creative director, and Lesley Alexander, MD of its PR division in Glasgow.
It is the second time Gorman has resigned from an agency without a position to go to. In 2003, he quit as managing partner of 1576 - the agency he founded 12 years ago.
At the time, he was quoted as saying; “I’ve made the decision to make a clean break and try something new. However, I can confirm that I will not continue to work in advertising.”
A year later he joined Citigate Smarts.
Gorman said of his decision to leave IAS Smarts: “I have had an interesting and enjoyable two years working with Rob and the team but, for a variety of reasons, now seemed like a good time to move on. I’m keeping my options wide open with regards to what I do next. I retain the utmost respect for Helen, Lesley, Rob and the team.”
Gorman has worked in Scottish advertising for 18 years, starting as a graduate trainee at Hall Advertising, before joining The Leith Agency. He spent six years there before forming 1576 with David Reid and Adrian Jeffrey.
Gorman leaves this week.
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