SHANGHAI – DDB China Group has appointed Twelve Tong as Vice President of DDB Group North China, charged with leading the agency’s new business expansion. Based in Shanghai, Twelve reports to Richard Tan, President & CEO of DDB Group North China.
“In recent years, Chinese brands have become a force to be reckoned with on the global platform. Not only have they dominated the local scene, but have made ample noise in international markets. With this in mind, we are strengthening our services for Chinese brands to help them drive their market presence and communication strategies and reach consumers across a wider terrain,” said Richard Tan.
“Twelve’s first-hand experience working in China’s diverse markets gives him keen consumer insight and a solid grip on the pulse of the markets. Coupled with the winning combination of concrete operational experience and a foundation in 4A agencies, we believe he will make a great addition to the team,” Richard added.
Born and raised in China, Twelve started his career at Saatchi & Saatchi Guangzhou. After four years, he set up his own agency where he led a team of 20 to deliver creative work and strategies for clients such as Midea and Haier. In 2006, Twelve joined Ogilvy Shanghai, where he won many new business accounts, including Tsingtao Beer, China Merchants Bank Credit Card, and POVOS during his five-year stint. In 2012, Twelve returned to Saatchi & Saatchi, where he joined the Shanghai office as Business Director, driving accounts like CCTV, Nippon Paint, AO/Smith, Robam, Huawei, and La Cadiere.
Tong has spearheaded business across China, covering brand markets spanning the country, and driving in-depth conversations with a variety of consumer groups. Throughout the years, teams under Twelve’s leadership have won a multiple of marketing awards for client brands, such as Effies (China, APAC), Hong Kong 4A Advertising Awards and Cannes.
“This is the golden age; Chinese brands are becoming increasingly sophisticated and communication methods are solidifying a new direction in the digitally skewed world of advertising. This is creating new opportunities for the marketing communication industry and more importantly, Chinese brands are prioritizing effective and creative communication with consumers,” said Tong.
“As one of the first group of advertising graduates in China, I sincerely hope to see Chinese brands earn a place in consumers’ hearts around the world. It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to be on the frontlines. DDB’s respect for creativity, its cultivation of talent and prioritization of client service has led me to believe that I have found the right platform to create – along with DDB and our clients – innovative work that will make a difference,” Tong added.
