Carat has started off the year by welcoming a new client in National Hearing Care and retaining the media account for NFP anti-domestic violence organisation Our Watch.

Won via a competitive pitch, National Hearing Care – part of the Amplifon group – distributes hearing aids across a network of 200 retailers and 240 audiologists throughout Australia.

With the retention of Our Watch, a client of Carat’s since 2015, the wins represent over $10 million in billings. Both accounts will be led out of Melbourne.

Commenting on the wins Carat’s CEO for Australia and New Zealand, Paul Brooks (pictured above), said: “A win is always a great way to kick off the New Year. I’m glad to see that we’re stacking up and succeeding in pitches with the best of them.

“That said, there’s no greater barometer of success than knowing your current clients want to continue, and in the case of Our Watch, build on their relationship with you. It’s hugely satisfying.

“These are some fantastic brands to have on board, and I know the team is looking forward to doing some great work with them this year.”

To support the agency’s continued success, Carat has also promoted Sian Whitaker to the newly created role of head of operational performance for its Melbourne office.

Whitaker will work with Carat’s Melbourne managing director Joseph Pardillo to help lead the team of 100-plus.