Ex-Saatchis APAC CEO Ian Rowden joins Virgin

Rowden spent three years leading Saatchis in the region, before departing in May this year. He was responsible for growing the agency throughout the region, with particular reference on the key markets of China and India.

His role as chief marketing officer with the Virgin Group is a global one. The group says it will go to the heart of its ongoing strategy. "Ian has a mandate to drive the Virgin brand’s international expansion and to enhance and expand the global brand team," the company said in a statement.

Co-CEOs David Baxby and Josh Bayliss said Rowden's extensive CV would be a strong fit for the organisation.

“Expanding the strength and reach of the Virgin brand is at the core of our strategy and we look forward to working with Ian to execute this plan," they said. "He has a unique mix of marketing and entrepreneurial experience to help grow our existing companies and develop new markets and industries."

Rowden said that Virgin boasts a unique brand, one that touches consumers all over the world. "It was the opportunity to drive further growth of this incredible brand that attracted me to the Virgin Group," he said. "I look forward to working with (Virgin founder) Richard (Branson) and the team as we explore new ventures for Virgin around the globe."

US-based Rowden was educated in Sydney, and spent much of his early career there, working first with Coca-Cola from early 1980. He was also based in Sydney during his tenure with Saatchi and Saatchi. Chris Foster assumed that role on 1 June this year.