DDB Worldwide has announced the appointment of Andrew Little as president and regional CEO across Australia and New Zealand, elevating him to the agency network’s global leadership team.
The appointment follows Marty O’Halloran’s elevation to the DDB Worldwide CEO position in July last year.
Little, who has been group CEO of DDB Australia for the past seven years, is a 21-year veteran of the global advertising and marketing agency, beginning his career in Melbourne in 2000.
O’Halloran said Little’s appointment is important for the network.
“Andrew is a legend who has driven the Australian agency group to a high level of growth and creative achievement,” he said.
“I couldn’t think of anyone better suited to steer the region into the future. His 21 years with DDB speaks volumes about his loyalty and commitment, and the investment we make in outstanding talent.
“Both countries have exceptional leadership teams, who are doing a wonderful job growing our business and delivering excellent work for clients.
“Andrew’s role will be to ensure there is trans-Tasman collaboration where needed for clients, many of which increasingly span both markets.”
Little said he was looking forward to the role and working across both countries.
“The New Zealand agency is exceptional with numerous top awards under its belt,” he said.
“My latest chapter here means I can continue working closely with the best people and clients across the region.
“I’m honoured that my new role will see me lead both businesses, which are forces within their local markets, within the DDB network, and on the global creative stage.”
It was also announced today that DDB Sydney managing director Priya Patel has become the first female CEO for DDB Group New Zealand.
“Priya is a superstar from within the DDB Worldwide network,” O’Halloran said.
“Andrew and I identified her unique skills early on and am now delighted to be able to introduce her to New Zealand.”
Patel has been managing director of DDB Sydney since 2018 and had more than 14 years’ agency experience in the UK before moving to Australia in 2017.
Little said Patel’s appointment demonstrates the great bench strength and talent within the agency network.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for her and a great move for the regional network,” he said.
Commenting on her new role, Patel said: “While I am sad to leave the talented, smart and genuinely kind humans at DDB Sydney, the opportunity to lead DDB Group Aotearoa New Zealand is simply a challenge too good to turn down.
“It’s a business at the top of its game, and my job will be to try and futureproof it and take it to the next level of success.”
Patel will continue to report to Little and a global search has begun for her replacement.
“This is one of the strongest regional teams I have the pleasure of leading,” O’Halloran said.
“I can’t wait to see what they do.”
