Omnicom Media (OM) has tapped David McCallen for APAC’s chief strategy role. Effective immediately, McCallen is tasked with guiding strategy across the region, bringing fresh thinking and innovation to client solutions, and helping define what the next chapter of growth looks like for OM APAC.
McCallen has relocated to Singapore from Auckland for the role. He will shape breakthrough strategies for clients, partner with markets to localise and operationalise global strategy across APAC, and inspire and grow local strategic teams through coaching and capability development. He reports to Tony Harradine, CEO, OM APAC.
“It’s a huge honour to take on this role,” he said on his appointment.
“We’re at a point where the industry needs to rethink what great strategy looks like and build a model fit for the complexity our clients navigate every day. At the same time, APAC continues to be an increasingly important source of growth, innovation, and influence for the global industry. The depth of talent we now have across the region is immense. For me, the exciting part is bringing that talent together, building something genuinely different and proving what this region is capable of.”
McCallen brings more than 20 years across APAC, Oceania, and Europe, spanning both agency and client-side experience in CX, creative, and media.
Before receiving the promotion McCallen was formerly APAC CSO at OMD. During David’s four-year tenure at OMD APAC, the agency network leapt from number five to number one in RECMA rankings.
And before stepping into the regional role, he led strategy at OMD NZ for five successful years.
“David’s appointment reflects our commitment to strategic excellence across the region. His proven ability to elevate strategic thinking and drive transformational outcomes, as demonstrated by OMD’s remarkable rise within APAC, will be instrumental in shaping the future of our business,” Tony Harradine, CEO of OM APAC commented on the promotion.
“David brings the strategic rigour, creative insight, and commercial acumen we need to help our clients navigate an increasingly complex landscape and unlock genuine competitive advantage.”
