Creative agency M&C Saatchi has announced the departure of its executive creative director, Michael Canning.
Canning has decided to leave the agency at the end of January to pursue a personal creative venture.
Under his leadership, the agency has produced some of its most notable work.
Highlights include the AIME ‘Cogs’ campaign, the CommBank’s ‘CAN’ re-launch and educational platform ‘Teleporter Adventures’, a new fire prevention technology for Australian communities in NRMA ‘Fireblanket’, and the launch of a global platform for Lexus with the immersive experience ‘Hidden Artistry’.
M&C Saatchi CEO Jaimes Leggett said: “We’re sad to see Michael go. We have always admired him for his creative mind and entrepreneurial spirit.
“We’re excited to see his next venture. I’d like to thank him for everything he has done at the agency.”
Commenting on his departure, Canning said: “As a creative person, I’m a big believer in entrepreneurial thinking, which is something that attracted me to M&C Saatchi from the US.
“With the start of the new year, I’ve decided that the time is right for me to spend some quality time on a personal venture that I’m passionate about.
“I’m very proud of the work we’ve created at M&C Saatchi over the past two years. With Cam joining this year, I know the creative department are in great hands and I can’t wait to see what they do this year.”
A native to Sydney, Canning spent six years working in the US on the leadership teams of Leo Burnett North America and 72andSunny Los Angeles before returning to Australia to join M&C Saatchi Sydney.
M&C Saatchi will welcome its new chief creative officer, Cam Blackley, in early February.
