ASIA-PACIFIC – HONG KONG, OCTOBER 19, 2010 – Leo Burnett announced today management changes in its Greater China operations. Eddie Booth, currently Chairman of Leo Burnett Greater China, has been named CEO and Chairman for the same area, succeeding CEO Michael Wood, who leaves Leo Burnett at the end of December after 23 years with the network. Booth will report to Leo Burnett Worldwide Chairman and CEO Tom Bernardin.
Bernardin said, "I feel nothing but respect and gratitude for Michael’s many contributions to our agency and our people. He leaves the agency in a very strong position – an agency that has not only grown in both revenue and creative reputation, but one filled with highly talented people. We wish him well in this new chapter of his professional life.”
On Booth’s appointment, Bernardin commented, “Eddie is well respected in the industry having been recognized with numerous creative accolades and awards during his 20-year career. Throughout his 11 years at Leo Burnett, Eddie has not only inspired his creative teams to reach new levels, including a record nine Lions at Cannes this year, but has demonstrated strong leadership and business acumen that have led to steady growth in the Southern China region.”
“With the combined prowess of both Eddie and Jarek Ziebinski (President, Leo Burnett Asia Pacific) at the helm of Greater China and the rest of Asia Pacific, both critically important regions for Leo Burnett Worldwide, the result will be a strong Leo Burnett well positioned for the growth we expect in the near and long term future in this part of the world,” added Bernardin.