Move and win roundup: Week of October, 21

After two decades at the helm, Steve O'Connor is stepping down as CEO of JCDecaux Australia and New Zealand. Effective January 1, 2025, chief commercial officer Max Eburne and chief financial officer David Watkins will assume leadership as co-CEOs. O'Connor will remain with the company through the end of 2024 to ensure a smooth transition. "I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and I thank everyone who has supported me and the company. Max and David are well-prepared to lead the business into the future," O'Connor said. "I’m looking forward to spending more time on my cattle farm, travelling, and contemplating the next chapter of my life.”

According to media reports, McDonald's Australia, the country's third-largest advertiser, has launched a creative agency review, ending a 55-year partnership with DDB Sydney. According to reports, the fast-food giant is seeking an additional creative agency partner from its existing global roster to join its "award-winning agency village." This move comes as DDB Sydney also faces the challenge of defending its Westpac account. The pitch process is expected to conclude before the end of 2024. McDonald's retains DDB's Mango for PR and Omnicom's OMD as its media agency.

PR agency WE Red Bridge is on a winning streak, adding three fashion and beauty brands to its growing roster, solidifying its position in the luxury sector. The agency has secured partnerships with heritage Scottish cashmere brand Johnstons of Elgin, makeup artist Natasha Denona, and Chinese sustainable skincare brand Herbeast. Johnstons of Elgin has tapped WE Red Bridge for its China PR, aiming to connect with Chinese consumers and showcase its two centuries of craftsmanship. Natasha Denona, launching in mainland China via Sephora in October 2024, has tasked the agency with establishing its formulas at the forefront of the beauty market. The agency will work towards elevating Herbeast's brand awareness and communicate its C-beauty philosophy within the premium skincare market in China. 

Clemengers has strengthened its creative department with six new appointments. Joining the team are:

• Creative directors Heidi Kesselman and Anthony Cassidy, relocating from Singapore and the UK, respectively. Kesselman's experience includes freelance work for BBH and TBWA, as well as global roles with BBDO. Cassidy brings experience from brands such as Marks and Spencer, Arcadia Group, and Portas.
• The agency has also added creative resource director Lizzie Slattery, returning to Melbourne after seven years at We Are Social London.
• Senior creative Jake Blood joins from Saatchi & Saatchi Melbourne. He has also held creative roles with M&C Saatchi, DDB Aotearoa NZ and Saatchi & Saatchi NZ. 
• Copywriter Talia Stone and
• Art director Zaneta Vincent.