James Walker-Smith, Leo Australia’s chief client partner, has departed the business after 11 years.
Posting on LinkedIn, Walker-Smith said he had finished up a few weeks ago and praised the agency.
“I arrived in 2015 to run the full-service offer for the mighty Diageo account. It was a remarkable role, and it needed to be, as I’d moved my young family across the world for it. Over a decade later, as GM and then Chief Client Partner, building and sustaining one of the best creative agencies in the land has been the most meaningful role of my career.
“The work I’ve been across speaks for itself: effective and award-winning, but also work I’m proud to show family and friends. What I’ve come to value most, though, is the time spent with so many wonderful creative people. This incredible community of talent, determination, spirit and decency is what makes Leo so special. It was, without doubt, 11 years well spent.”
Walker-Smith said he is “around for coffees, dog walks and, of course, paddle outs”. He also said he is exploring “some new paths and starting some new things”.
Leo Australia CEO Clare Pickens told B&T: “James has been part of the fabric of Leo since 2015. In that time he has made an immeasurable impact on our client partners, the team, and the culture of Leo. He will be greatly missed, and we wish him every success with his future endeavours.”
Walker-Smith departs the agency on a high as it claimed the Network of the Year title at the APAC Effies.
