M+C Saatchi Group hires Simon Wassef as group chief strategy officer

M+C Saatchi has named Simon Wassef group chief strategy officer, strengthening the group’s leadership bench as it sharpens its strategic direction across Australia and New Zealand.

Wassef joins after two years at Clemenger BBDO, where he served as chief strategy and experience officer, working across HCF, Great Northern Brewing Company, Solo Energy, Hard Rated, Carlton Dry and MYER.

His career spans senior strategy roles at AKQA in London and Sydney, TBWA\Chiat\Day Los Angeles, Droga5 Sydney and R/GA London.

In his new role he will lead the group’s strategic vision, working closely with CEO Dani Bassil and the wider leadership team, including group chief creative officer Emma Robbins, managing director Tanya Vragalis, CMO Anita Zanesco, managing partner for passions and PR Rhian Mason, and managing director of M+C Saatchi Consulting and Re, Ben Harrison.

“I build teams and capabilities for modern businesses who want to win. M+C is the best place to build: grown up, in control of its destiny and 100% focused on client success. And Dani and Emma are the best people to build with. I’m really excited,” Wassef said.

His appointment comes amid a series of senior hires at the group, including Topher Jones as client experience director, Louise Rutherford as client partner and Jeremy Hogg as national executive creative director.

“I’m thrilled to have Simon join us. He brings a rare mix of intelligence, empathy and creative drive that will add so much to our leadership team and our clients’ businesses,” Dani Bassil, CEO of M+C Saatchi Group ANZ, said.

Wassef will start in the new year.