72andSunny Sydney appoints new leadership team as Ross Berthinussen departs for UK

72andSunny has announced a revamped leadership structure, with Sophie Sykes joining as managing director and Alexandra Nel appointed executive strategy director. The changes follow the departure of current MD Ross Berthinussen, who is returning to the UK after six years with the agency.

Sykes (pictured) joins from Howatson+Company, where she played a key role in the agency’s growth as client partner and one of its earliest senior hires. Nel steps into the newly created executive strategy director role, having most recently led Telstra at +61, with prior experience at TBWA and Leo Burnett.

The appointments mark the latest step in a broader transformation at 72andSunny, which includes the recent hire of Wez Hawes as chief creative officer, a refreshed creative department and a move to a larger studio in The Rocks. Recent account wins include Big W, AFL, Cadillac and Princess Cruises.

Chris Kay, international president of 72andSunny, said the new leadership reflects the agency’s ambitions for cultural and creative growth in Australia.

“After 7 years in Sydney it’s awesome to see the continued impact of our brand as we build for the next stage of cultural impact. Modern Australia needs a new generation leadership team who are here to play to win and Sophie, Alex and Wez are exactly that and the future looks sunny.”

Sykes and Nel will report to Kay and Maria Galleriu, 72andSunny’s international executive strategy director. Together with Hawes, they will lead the next phase of the agency’s evolution, focused on organic growth and deepening client relationships across accounts including Google, REA, Stake and Deputy.

“To continue the trajectory 72andSunny is on right now, we knew we had to swing big and I couldn’t be more excited by the impending arrivals of Sophie and Alexandra,” Hawes said.

“They both have a wealth of experience and proven track records in creating modern, culturally impactful work, while also being instrumental in building the agencies that create it.”

Berthinussen leaves the agency after overseeing a period of sustained growth, including wins across REA, Big W and Who Gives A Crap, and award-winning work for Google.

“I’m super grateful for my time with 72andSunny. I’ve learned so much and loved experiencing first-hand the rocket fuel of running a creative company powered by a belief in Optimism,” Berthinussen said. “I’m stoked to hand over to such an all-star team and can’t wait to see where Wez, Alex and Sophie take 72andSunny with our team of legends and wonderful client partners.”