SYDNEY, Yesterday: WPP AUNZ has announced that John Gutteridge – formerly the Singapore-based APAC ceo at J. Walter Thompson – is to take on the newly created role of chief executive officer for Wunderman Thompson Australia/NZ.
WPP AUNZ executive director John Steedman said: “When Wunderman and J. Walter Thompson united last year to form Wunderman Thompson, the search for an outstanding leader with a broad spectrum of both local and global industry experience across creative, data and technology began in earnest.
“I am and delighted John wanted to return to Australia as he is a perfect fit for the role.”
Gutteridge said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in APAC and there’s much to be proud of. I shall truly miss our clients, the diverse cultures and the great talent we have across the region. I am now relishing the prospect of being more intimately involved with the running of the business, the product and of course our clients, as we launch the exciting proposition of Wunderman Thompson.”
“If the photo is anything to go by, Wunderman Thompson’s new ANZ chief executive means business!”
Gutteridge will report into the ceo of WPP AUNZ (once appointed) and will also be a member of the WPP AUNZ executive committee responsible for driving innovation across the entire WPP group.
“The opportunity to play a key role and influence the future of WPP AUNZ is also tremendously exciting,” he said. “I know the executive team well and look forward to working closely with them all in what will be an exciting year ahead. I can’t wait to get started.”
Wunderman Thompson chairman Tamara Ingram said: “John has been a very strong and effective leader in APAC and brought considerable talent and new business to the region. The business is now more diversified and modernised both in terms of skills and output.
“John and I have been in discussions since last year about his need to be closer to his family in Australia, this is a great outcome for John, Wunderman Thompson and WPP AUNZ.”
Gutteridge returns to Australia Q1, 2019.
The last word …
… belongs to Aussie trade site B&T who astutely observed: “And if the photo is anything to go by, Wunderman Thompson’s new ANZ chief executive means business!”
Share this Post
