Tan Kien Eng takes over at Leo Burnett Singapore as Kurt Viertel departs

Tan's new role, CEO of Malaysia and Singapore, has been created to enhance synergy between the two country operations.

According to a press statement from Leo Burnett the move is also part of a strategic plan to build Leo Burnett Group Singapore and Malaysia into centres of excellence on digital and retail respectively, while optimising other services provided by the creative agency, such as advertising, CRM, direct marketing, events and promotions.

Nick Handel, regional director of digital, Leo Burnett Group, and managing director of Arc Worldwide Singapore, will focus on boosting growth of the digital business in Asia-Pacific.

The new operation model will be effective commencing 15 October this year.

“Leo Burnett aims to be the fastest-growing creative enterprise in Asia-Pacific. To achieve this vision we need to operate differently. This is the strategic next step, after we have changed our approach to regional management. Leo Burnett is not just a collection of agencies, it is the network that truly networks cross border. We introduce this new operation model to stimulate growth, further optimize resources and drive efficiency. I’m confident that Kien is the best leader to take us to the future in Singapore and Malaysia,” said Jarek Ziebinski, president for Leo Burnett Asia-Pacific.

Last week Leo Burnett announced Lilian Leong's appointment as managing director in Hong Kong.