DDB China Group names Jason Wu as new CEO

DDB China Group has appointed Jason Wu as its chief executive officer effective immediately, taking over from current CEO, Matthew Cheng, who is returning to his native Hong Kong for family reasons.

In his new position, Wu will accelerate the drive towards digital and social commerce marketing for the agency’s clients across its offices in Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou. He is also tasked with powering up DDB China Group’s team to deliver unexpected work for the agency’s major clients.

Wu will work closely with David Tang, CEO of DDB Asia and the DDB Asia regional team to lead the agency group’s collaboration and innovation across the region. 

Born and raised in Shanghai, Wu has over 20 years’ experience with 4A agencies in China including founding digital content agency Animal. He is an internationalist with strong business management experience across both multinational and local China businesses such as Unilever, ASUS, Alibaba, JD.com, Midea, Tsingtao Beer, Blizzard Games, and Mengniu Dairy.

Wu was formerly managing director of Wunderman Thompson Shanghai in 2020 and vice-president of DDB Group China in 2016. His appointment marks a return to the agency he fondly describes as “the most dedicated and nicest people he has ever worked with”.

Speaking of his new appointment, Wu said: “It’s great to be back at DDB. I’m coming back stronger, braver and with a whole new outlook about digital marketing and brand-building business results for China. I look forward to building on Matthew’s great work and leading the team to winning work. I’m really excited about DDB’s global network, intelligence and creative focus to deliver unexpected business results with our clients, team and partners.”  

David Tang said: “China has accelerated in digital commerce marketing, especially during the last two years of COVID. The pace of change has been amazing and major clients want a more dynamic, result-driven approach. We have a lot to thank Cheng for steering DDB China Group through the last four years. We’re backing Wu with his local business acumen and his drive for digital transformation to lead our growth strategy in China. It’s a great time to put the focus and drive into a new China emerging.”

Marty O’Halloran, DDB Global CEO added: “China is our big focus, especially for our global and multinational clients. We’re excited to have Wu leading our brightest and dynamic talents on this drive for China’s exciting, new future. I’m sure he will galvanize momentum and growth in partnership with our regional team in Asia, as well as with the wider global DDB network.”

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