Following the launch of Merkle in the Australian market in March, Columbus, a Merkle Company has secured nine new clients in three months, including Macquarie University, Event Hospitality & Entertainment Limited and Hipages.

Columbus has also appointed two group business directors in the Victorian market, with Leonie Dawkins (pictured above, left) and Guy McGechan (pictured above, right) joining the growing agency, jointly overseeing a team of 55 people in conjunction with state general manager Marianne McNally (pictured above, centre).

With more than nine years’ industry experience, Dawkins joins Columbus from fellow Dentsu Aegis Network agency Carat, while McGechan joins Columbus from Havas Media with 10 years’ experience working in the UK and Australia.

McNally said: “Guy and Leonie are exceptional talents, and their combined experience has further strengthened our senior leadership in Victoria.

“Their leadership and digital expertise will help Columbus, a Merkle Company to continue to lead conversations with clients to deliver end-to-end, data-driven solutions.”

Both Dawkins and McGechan also join the agency’s leadership team, led by CEO Rebecca Tos.

“Leonie and Guy are stellar examples of the great talent in our industry,” Tos said.

“Both have diverse backgrounds across media with deep expertise in delivering results for a wide range of clients. I’m delighted to have Leonie and Guy join the team and build on the business’ positive momentum.”

Simon Ryan, CEO of Dentsu Aegis Network ANZ, added: “We’re delighted to welcome nine new clients to Columbus in the first quarter of the year – a testament to the strength of the team.