GLOBAL – M&C Saatchi announced on Wednesday that former Executive Creative Director of its Sydney office, Ben Welsh, has been promoted to Creative Chairman of Asia, replacing Chris Jacques.
The appointment of Welsh is the Network’s response to the dramatic changes that has been happening in the region.
“This appointment underlines our commitment to the core of our business – the creative product. Ben is the best combination of strategic thinker and creative leader. Add in his boundless energy and Asia will be hugely strengthened. He is also an excellent brand ambassador for M&C Saatchi having worked for us for the last 18 years,” commented Moray MacLennan, CEO Worldwide at M&C Saatchi.
Welsh’s focus will be pitching for both International and National brands in each region, attracting creative talent and developing the creative output of the five Agencies the Network runs there.
“I’m really excited at the thought of what we can do in the region. We have some brilliant people and I look forward to working with them to create an impact in such a diverse part of the world,” said Welsh.
Since he joined M&C Saatchi Sydney in 1997 as a senior writer and then creative director in 2003, he elevated the agency as the leading creative shop in Australia – and has led the agency this year to its biggest Cannes Lions trophy-haul including one of the five coveted Titanium Lion.
He led a team of over 50 creatives working across digital, direct, retail and above the line media in Australia’s largest agency. As well as winning numerous Australian and international awards, he has also served on industry panels, such as creative juries for the Cannes Lions and D&AD.
