AUCKLAND, Today: Highlighting New Zealand’s growing importance, Omnicom Media Group (OMG) has appointed PHD New Zealand CEO Nikki Grafton to the new position of CEO, OMG New Zealand.
This marks the first time OMG’s New Zealand operations will have standalone executive oversight, distinct from the ANZ leadership team.
In this role, Grafton will spearhead the expansion and modernisation of OMG’s business model in New Zealand. She will oversee OMD, PHD, and Hearts & Science, ensuring they have the necessary talent, tools, and technology to capitalise on market opportunities and drive brand growth.
Supported by Nigel Douglas, CEO of OMD New Zealand, and Jane Stanley, CEO of Hearts & Science, ANZ, Grafton will report directly to OMG APAC CEO Tony Harradine.
Grafton’s two decades at PHD New Zealand were instrumental in shaping the agency’s innovative approach and strong client relationships.
“As a pivotal growth centre for OMG in Asia Pacific, New Zealand is key to our regional strategy. Nikki is a driven leader who excels in translating client goals into impactful results.” – Tony Harradine
This contributed to its outstanding market performance, highlighted by a Dominant rating from RECMA and key account wins like Lion NZ. Under her leadership, PHD New Zealand gained acclaim on various awards circuits, including the 2024 Cannes Lions and Festival of Media Awards APAC.
“As a pivotal growth centre for OMG in Asia Pacific, New Zealand is key to our regional strategy. Nikki is a driven leader who excels in translating client goals into impactful results.
“Her ability to foster close client relationships enhances brand trust in our Agency as a Platform model, positioning her as a vital asset for our competitive edge in New Zealand,” Harradine noted.
On her new role, Grafton commented, “With a team of innovative thinkers at OMG, I am thrilled about the opportunities to foster deeper partnerships and drive significant market impact here in New Zealand.”
Grafton steps into her CEO role with OMG New Zealand already leading in local RECMA rankings and topping New Zealand’s COMvergence New Business rankings in 2024.
Additionally, Abby Parkin, Managing Director of PHD New Zealand, will succeed Grafton as CEO starting 1 March. Parkin has been pivotal in delivering top-tier communications solutions and will continue to evolve PHD’s offerings to meet future market demands.
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