AdSpark appoints Manny Fernando as CEO to drive next phase of growth

AdSpark, a Philippines-based data-powered agency under Brave Connective Holdings, has appointed Jose Manuel “Manny” Fernando (pictured) as its new CEO effective 1 September 2025.

Fernando brings with him more than three decades of leadership experience across telecommunications, digital innovation, and marketing transformation. He is best known for bridging the gap between technology and marketing to deliver measurable business results.

“AdSpark has always stood out as a proudly local independent agency that combines creativity, media, technology, and data to create real impact for brands,” said Fernando. “I look forward to building on this strong foundation and helping AdSpark scale into the next generation of digital marketing leadership.”

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His early career in telecommunications and mobile solutions gave him an insider’s view of how technology shapes consumer behaviour. This later positioned him to pioneer mobile marketing in the Philippines. At McCann Worldgroup Philippines, he championed innovations that expanded revenue streams and prepared the agency for a digital-first future. As managing partner of MRM//McCann Manila, Fernando built digital and social practices that became industry benchmarks.

Beyond agency leadership, he also served the wider sector as a founding member and past president of the digital marketing association of the Philippines (DMAP) - formerly the internet and mobile marketing association of the Philippines (IMMAP) - where he played a key role in advancing digital marketing standards.

Fernando will be supported by John Louie Erestain, who continues as chief operating officer. “With Manny at the helm, we are well-positioned to strengthen our MADTECH (marketing and advertising technology) capabilities and scale our impact for partners,” said Erestain. “Together with our talented team, we’re ready to elevate AdSpark into a true market leader.”

Nikko Acosta, group CEO and president of Brave Connective Holdings, welcomed the appointment. “We are thrilled to welcome Manny to the leadership family. His extensive experience in transformation and innovation aligns perfectly with our vision. With Manny’s leadership at AdSpark and JL’s continued operational excellence, we are confident that AdSpark will drive even greater value for brands and deepen synergies across our ecosystem with Inquiro, m360, and Rush.”

AdSpark plays a central role in Brave Connective’s broader omnitech strategy under Globe. The agency recently expanded its ecosystem through the acquisition of DeepSea, which strengthens programmatic advertising capabilities, and Secret Menu, which enhances creative production.

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