Starcom MediaVest implements new regional structure with Iain Jacob named president EMEA
Starcom MediaVest (SMG) has implemented a new structure in a bid to organise itself into a “communications network with an edge”.
The company, owned by Publicis Groupe, previously operated in a market cluster model with a dynamic markets divison which included South Africa, Australia and Canada.
Moving forward, it has been structured into five regions: APAC, EMEA, LATAM, North America and North Asia.
SMG’s global CEO Laura Desmond said the new structure reflects the shift in how clients are operating and has aimed to create a connected regional network to “drive growth in data-driven content and addressable marketing.”
“Our industry landscape around the world is shifting so seismically – and with such velocity – that to be a true agency of tomorrow, we must strategically integrate best talents and solutions wherever they exist.” said Desmond.
“As a result, we’re leveraging existing capabilities and continuing to expand our business through acquisitions and partnerships to organise SMG into a different communications network with an edge. As our clients businesses are changing, we’re pivoting our organisational structure with them to accelerate the next wave of growth in addressable media and data-driven content all over the world.”
Two new regional roles have been created as a result of the restructure. Iain Jacob, currently president of dynamic markets, has been named president, EMEA while Mike Amour, currently CEO Asia Pacific at Project: Worldwide, has joined the company as president, APAC.
Monica Gadsby, CEO Latin America and US Multicultural operations; Bertilla Teo, CEO North Asia; Brian Terkelsen, CEO North America and Lisa Donohue, Starcom USA remain in their current roles.
Matt Blackborn, previously president of emerging markets, has taken on the newly created role of president, global investment and diversification where he will partner with both VivaKi Exchange and VivaKi leadership teams to drive new media investment models.
SMG’s new regional management structure follows a series of acquisitions including branded content agency Relevant24 (R24), mobile agency RUN, and social marketing firm MRY.