Former DDB global chairman Marty O’Halloran joins Thrive PR in strategic advisory role

Former DDB Worldwide global chairman Marty O’Halloran has joined Thrive PR and Communications in a strategic advisory role, marking a significant addition to the independent agency’s leadership bench as it expands across Australia and New Zealand.

O’Halloran brings nearly four decades of experience in global advertising and communications. He began his career as an account manager in Melbourne before rising through the ranks of DDB Worldwide to become global CEO and later global chairman, overseeing more than 10,000 staff across 90 markets as part of Omnicom Group. He retired from the role in 2024.

In his new role advising Thrive across Australia and New Zealand, O’Halloran will work with the agency’s leadership team on strategy, growth and culture, while mentoring emerging communications leaders across the business.

The appointment represents Thrive’s first executive advisory position and comes as the agency looks to accelerate its multi-market and multi-service ambitions.

Thrive CEO and founder Leilani Abels said O’Halloran’s experience building globally recognised agencies would help shape the company’s next stage of development.

“Marty has led one of the most awarded creative networks in the world and there are few leaders globally who are held in such high esteem. He understands exactly how agencies grow and he’ll help Thrive to innovate, elevate creativity and continue to focus relentlessly on adding value to clients,” Abels said.

“Marty shares our belief that creativity and connections drive business growth, and that great agencies are built by creating environments where our people thrive. His perspective, mentorship and leadership will help us accelerate Thrive’s ambitions - to be the number one agency that communications professionals come to grow and build extraordinary careers, and where the most ambitious clients in the world choose to partner.”

O’Halloran said he was drawn to Thrive’s entrepreneurial culture and its earned-first philosophy.

“Thrive has built something special - a modern communications agency with strong values, ambitious leadership and a clear belief in the power of creativity and earned influence,” he said.

“I’ve always believed the best agencies combine strategic thinking, creative courage and a culture where talented people can do the best work of their careers. Thrive embodies that.”

“I’m excited to advise Leilani and the team to help the agency continue its impressive growth trajectory and support the next generation of communications leaders coming through the business.”

Thrive works with brands including The LEGO Group, Diageo, Cisco, Afterpay and Harley-Davidson across integrated campaigns spanning PR, social media, content and influencer marketing.

The announcement comes as the agency expands its leadership team, with Thrive currently recruiting for managing director and client partner roles in Sydney.