Following an extensive search, WPP AUNZ’s Active Display Group business has appointed Deane Hubball as CEO.

Beginning on February 7, the highly experienced Hubball will work closely with outgoing MD David Gittus, who will remain an integral part of the ADG business as he steps into an Executive Chairman role, and also takes on broader responsibilities across the WPP AUNZ Group.

Hubball brings a wealth of experience to the CEO role, most recently as GM of Group Business with the Blueprint Group. He also previously worked as Group CEO of Creative Instore Solutions.

“Deane brings both experience and expertise across both sides of the marketing world. Not only has he worked for and led outstanding businesses in our space, he has also worked on client-side for businesses that might typically be our customers including Twinings, Simplot, National Foods (Lion Nathan) & Cadbury Confectionery,” said Gittus.

“He’s a friendly, energetic and very capable leader, and I’m looking forward to working with him as we look to grow the ADG business even further.”

Hubball said of his appointment: “I am looking forward to starting my role as CEO of the Active Display Group of companies and feel very privileged to be given to the opportunity to lead this great group in its next phase of growth and development.

“David and his team have done a tremendous job in building Active Display Group into Australia’s largest POS Display and Signage organisation and I am so happy to hear that David will stay closely connected with the business as Chairman and through his new role and responsibilities at WPPAUNZ. I look forward to working with David over the coming weeks and months to ensure a seamless transition.”

Hubball said his initial focus would be to embed himself into all aspects of the business and engage with all stakeholders to ensure the ongoing provision of leading edge solutions which maximise return on investment.

“My strategic priorities will be to continue to drive and develop our core business whilst ensuring that we can future proof the group by staying ahead of industry trends and requirements via data, technology and unique omni-channel solutions.  I am also excited by the opportunity to leverage WPP’s unrivalled local and global scale, breadth and capability via collaboration with the amazing group of companies that operate within the group.”

Gittus said his broader role within WPP AUNZ will include the provision of expert advice and business direction across its production businesses. He will continue to be based at ADG in Melbourne as Executive Chairman.