DDB China Group appoints Tim Schlick as head of planning

Answering directly to DDB China Group president and CEO, Dick van Motman, Schlick will be responsible for all business and creative planning for the group and will work closely with all managing directors and business unit heads.

His responsibilities will include the development of non-traditional media options, leading key agency pitches, supporting key talent acquisition, developing thought leadership initiatives and supporting the ongoing development of integrated accounts.

With more than 10 years experience in strategic planning, regional management, business development, brand planning and cross-media strategy, Schlick has previously worked with clients such as General Motors, AMEX, Nestle, Coca Cola, InBev, Microsoft, Credit Suisse, Vodafone and Sony BMG.

Originally from Germany, he started his career with Andersen Consulting in Frankfurt. His new appointment at DDB China Group heralds a return to the Omnicom family, as he was director of new business for Omnicom Media Group in Dusseldorf in 2005.

Schlick will be taking over from Asit Gupta, who has decided to move back to Hong Kong to be with his family and pursue an independent consultancy venture but will continue to be associated with DDB China on specific projects.

"We're keen to begin working with Tim," said van Motman, "Having spent the majority of his career in Europe, he has a fresh perspective on the China market and we're excited to see how this benefits our existing planning team."