Former iris lead Craig Mapleston to head up agency VCCP's Asia hub in SG

An international integrated communications agency, VCCP has launched in Asia, making Singapore its hub.  The Singapore team will be headed by former iris' chief growth officer, Craig Mapleston (pictured), who takes on the role as APAC regional director. The launch of an office in Singapore comes on the back of global wins with Shell and Cathay Pacific, both requiring Asia presence.Speaking to Marketing prior to the launch, Mapleston said that the agency looks to have representation across Asia through partnerships, and through home grown talent in a bid to create a regional presence. Mapleston brings with him 20 years of experience across Asia, helming leadership roles with BatesAsia /141 Worldwide in Singapore as well as OgilvyAction.He will be tasked to build and grow the offering in Singapore and to service Shell in Asia.The launch of an office in Singapore comes on the back of global wins with Shell and Cathay Pacific, both requiring Asia presence. The Singapore team currently consists of digital, analytics, PR capabilities as it looks to grow into a full-service agency over the coming months.VCCP Singapore looks to be the strategic and creative centre for regional and global client requirements, as well as to guide local market teams across Asia. The firm has worked with brands such as Mondelez International, O2 and Domino’s Pizza.In a conversation with Marketing, Julian Douglas, vice chairman, VCCP said that its recent wins with Shell and Cathay Pacific "springboarded" the agency to launch in the Asia region, as it aims to make Asia a key area for growth. He added that VCCP aims to deliver its clients the culture, creativity and commercial focus of its agency. Operating in markets such as London, New York, Sydney and many others, there are currently no expansion plans in place for the agency."Singapore holds a wealth of possibilities to challenge the marketing landscape and we’ve proven success at simplifying complex problems with creative ideas and executions that cut through the noise. Mapleston is the perfect person to be heading up our office and driving our strategic approach," Adrian Coleman, group CEO, VCCP said.