Desmond takes over as Starcom CEO goes on sabbatical

Malaysia - Starcom Media Vest Group has made Laura Desmond its new global CEO following current chief Renetta McCann's decision to take a one-year sabbatical.

McCann will assist in the transition and will take on some talent-related projects during her leave.

“I have been given the opportunity to build an incredible organization during a decade of management responsibility, but I now recognize that some family matters and personal goals have unfortunately taken a back seat during this time. I would like to give them my full attention now,” she said.

"While the family matters are private, one of my personal goals is to uncover some new ways of thinking about talent and opportunity alignment, specifically which triggers, emotions, and assignments can more quickly propel the right people into the best roles," McCann said.

Desmond, who has been part of the organisation for more than 20 years, has served as CEO of the Americas since 2006. McCann assumed the role of global CEO in 2005.