ZOO group has graduated with honours, securing the highly competitive agency of record contract with the University of New England (UNE), for its brand and advertising account.

UNE has been the leading innovator of flexible study for over sixty years. Throughout the three month tender period the academic institution was seeking an intelligent and creative advertising partner to lead their marketing communications strategy that is set to shake-up online learning expectations across Australia.

“Having undertaken extensive research to understand key market segments, the imperative for us was to find a partner that was willing to listen to the research; without reinventing that understanding,” said Anthony Smith, executive director of marketing and strategic development at the UNE.

“ZOO group’s instant understanding of our market research and their collaborative approach throughout the tender period, allowed them to intelligently and creatively address the brief,” continued Smith.

Established in 2010, ZOO group has quickly forged a reputation through the strength of its independent network, on-point creativity and ability to quickly become a strategic partner for clients.

According to Simon Cubbin, managing director and founding partner of ZOO group, the pitch process for UNE was singularly different from their other account wins in 2015.

“The UNE brief presented a unique challenge for ZOO group as it is so rare to receive an offer to tender for a project where so many elements are already in place. From the consumer research to new product development, economic overviews to leading edge technology, UNE had thought of it all,” said Cubbin.

“The development of a single and profound idea that truly synthesised UNE’s strategic thinking was what we aimed to present. Once we had this in place, everything just flowed.”

Having already secured significant contracts with CSR Limited, Hyundai Trucks, DFAT, Jack Daniels, Ferrero Rocher, Sydney City Council, Wesfarmers and a number of domestic and off shore tourism and banking clients in 2015, ZOO group is looking forward to diving into the UNE campaign.

“As an independent agency, we are immensely proud of the growth we have achieved throughout 2015.

“UNE is a significant win for our business, not only because of the scale of the account, but because of the natural cultural alignment between our two organisations. We couldn’t be more excited, and can’t wait to start working with such a clever and respected brand,” concluded Cubbin.