MUMBAI: Omnicom Group Inc., chief creative officer Bob Scarpelli has been given an additional responsibility to be DDB Worldwide chairman. At the same time, Interbrand Group chairman and group chief executive Chuck Brymer will become president and CEO of DDB Worldwide.
The announcement was made by Omnicom Group Inc., president and CEO John Wren.
Brymer succeeds Ken Kaess who died on 27 March. At Interbrand Group, Brymer will be succeeded by Interbrand London CEO Jez Frampton. Brymer’s and Frampton’s new positions are effective immediately.
“One of Ken’s legacies as a CEO is the management team, including the executive committee, he assembled at DDB. The appointment of Chuck will carry on that collaborative spirit,” Wren said.
“I am honoured to succeed Keith, one of the true visionaries in this business, as chairman. And I look forward to working with Chuck to unleash the potential of DDB and its people. Chuck understands that our culture is one that puts people first and he values creativity,” said Scarpelli.
“DDB has been a passion of mine. Helping it grow into a creative powerhouse was the most satisfying accomplishment of my career. Watching the network flourish under Ken’s leadership was enormously gratifying and I have no doubt the company will soar to even greater heights under the guidance of Bob and Chuck,” said Reinhard, who will continue to have an office at DDB.
Under Brymer’s leadership, Interbrand has expanded to over 30 offices serving clients in 80 countries and has become the leading authority on brands, corporate identity and design, producing effective and award winning work for clients, such as, AT&T, British Airways and Samsung. Brymer has written and lectured extensively on brands, corporate identity and design. With Businessweek, he created the annual ranking of the “The World’s Most Valuable Brands.”
Wren added, “Chuck’s diverse experience within advertising and marketing services and his recognition that all great work stems from a powerful idea made him the obvious choice to lead DDB.”
Brymer said, “I am looking forward to my new role at DDB, one of the most storied names in advertising. Under Ken’s leadership, DDB has successfully expanded into CRM, retail activation and interactive. It is well known for its creativity and ability to produce powerful ideas and transform them into creative business solutions. To lead such an agency and its people is a tremendous honour.”