New VMLY&R AUNZ CEO Announced, As Second CEO Exits

VMLY&R AUNZ has lost its second CEO, Aden Hepburn, just one month after ex co-CEO Pete Bosilkovski exited the agency.

WPP announced that VMLY&R global commerce leader Jon Bird will be relocating back to Australia from New York to take up the role of regional CEO of VMLY&R Australia & New Zealand, commencing early July.

Currently VMLY&R’s global chief retail & commerce officer, Bird will take the reins from present CEO Aden Hepburn, who has resigned and will transition out of VMLY&R full-time over the next several months.

After over 15 years with the network, and 12 months bringing VML and Y&R together, Hepburn will take a break from the business.

WPP AUNZ interim CEO John Steedman said the team was excited about Bird’s imminent arrival back to Australia to lead VMLY&R as it continues to deliver a contemporary, fully integrated digital and creative offering to its clients.

“We’re thrilled to have someone of Jon’s caliber join the ANZ team,” said Steedman.

“Jon’s global experience and network connections, teamed with his deep local knowledge and digital prowess, makes him the ideal choice to lead VMLY&R ANZ as it moves into the next phase of growth.”

Originally from Sydney, Bird moved to the US in 2014 to join what is now VMLY&R, to work at the intersection of digital and retail on a global level.

Prior to his move, he was a founding partner and ultimately executive chairman of IdeaWorks, which became the region’s foremost specialist retail marketing agency. Bird also served as director of retail marketing for M&C Saatchi in Sydney.

VMLY&R global CEO Jon Cook commented: “Jon Bird is an exceptional leader, and a champion for breakthrough ideas. We’re excited to have him at the helm of this key market and as a member of the VMLY&R global leadership team.”

Cook also recognised Hepburn’s “commitment to the business, his clients and his team”, and the contribution he has made to VMLY&R.

“I chose Aden to open the doors of VML in Australia in the first place. He built an incredible company and has led award-winning and transformational work across some of the world’s best brands. I thank Aden and wish him all the best for the future.”

Hepburn said: “I’ve had the most amazing time, loved every minute with the Group, and couldn’t be prouder of our collective achievements. I leave the business in great shape and am excited to see what VMLY&R can do from here – the positioning, capability and promise of the agency is powerful.”

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