Advertising and marketing network WPP AUNZ has announced the launch of a strategy consulting division specialising in unlocking brand and market-led business growth.

Initiated to provide clients with more clarity and advice about the business decisions they should be making in an era of changing consumer behaviour, the WPP AUNZ Consulting will go “far beyond a conventional business consultancy,” according to group CEO Mike Connaghan.

“This a strategic move to help clients focus on where to play and how to win in a fast-paced business environment,” he explained.

“And we believe WPP AUNZ is best placed to give this advice because we are expert marketers that can provide clients from a wide range of industries the clarity and resolute decisions they require.”

Connaghan said WPP AUNZ Consulting’s approach would be firmly grounded in consumer research and advanced data analytics, tying insights to dollars and applying whole-brain thinking to the work they do.

“By using futurist thinking principles and adopting a holistic approach, WPP AUNZ Consulting will help companies think differently about where their business is and where it should be going,” he said.

The division will be led by managing partner Caspar Wright (pictured above, right), a 20-year industry veteran with vast experience in consulting, research, planning and general management.

Wright will be supported by his key leadership team, including WPP AUNZ Consulting partner Patrick Fry (pictured above, left).

Other senior WPP AUNZ executives including chief data scientist Rob Pardini and chief strategy officer Rose Herceg will work on key projects when required.

“The marketing world will change more in the next 10 years than the last 50, and it’s essential for clients to navigate this if they are to engage effectively with their markets and deliver great financial outcomes,” Wright said.

“WPP AUNZ Consulting will help our clients articulate and implement breakthrough strategies that are based on deep consumer and market understanding.

“This strategic clarity has never been more important, and we look forward to helping our clients grow and evolve.”

Connaghan added: “These are exciting changes, and the launch of WPP AUNZ Consulting will help our clients focus their market strategies in an era of so much choice and so little clarity.”