Octagon SG brings on board agency director to head up local ops

IPG's Octagon has appointed Joanne Warnes (pictured) as agency director, Singapore. Reporting to Aykan Azar, managing director SEA, Warnes will head up all local agency operations, oversight of clients such as Mastercard and Standard Chartered Bank, and with a remit to drive new business.Warnes comes from Havas Sport and Entertainment where she was chief operating officer of its UK business. She spent nine years with the agency working with some of the global brands such as Barclays, Wanda and Coca-Cola, and sports properties from the ATP World Tour Finals to the FIFA World Cup.“Warnes’ undoubtedly a heavyweight in the industry, and even in the short time she’s been with us it’s obvious the clout and influence she brings to the benefit of the agency, our clients, and our people. With her at the helm we’re looking forward to another exceptional year for the business in Singapore, and beyond,” Azar said.“We are delighted to welcome Warnes into APAC at the perfect time; with the 2019 Rugby World Cup and 2020 Tokyo Olympics around the corner all eyes are on Asia, and Warnes' experience with high profile brands and major sporting events alike will also make her an invaluable asset to our teams and our regional clients as we gear up to deliver campaigns around the globe,” he added.