Thompson Spencer launches in Australia following performance merger and rapid growth

Independent New Zealand agency Thompson Spencer has expanded into Australia with new offices in Sydney and Melbourne, as the creative and media agency ramps up its global footprint.

The expansion comes after the agency merged with performance media shop Reason last month, forming one of New Zealand’s largest full-funnel independents. Thompson Spencer already services several Australian clients, including DoorDash, Chartered Accountants, Wattyl and Seagrass Hospitality Group.

Founded 15 years ago by Wendy Thompson as a social media agency, Thompson Spencer has grown into a cross-functional marketing group spanning creative, media, influencer, video, performance, Chinese-language marketing and talent representation. It now comprises seven specialist teams and more than 50 staff, with active recruitment underway.

Co-CEO Melanie Spencer said the vision has always been to build one of the greatest modern ad agencies in the world. 

“We’ve earned our reputation in New Zealand and proven our impact globally. Now, we’re ready to take on the Australian market with the same fearless, future-focused mindset.”

Wendy Thompson, co-founder of Thompson Spencer, added Australia presents an exciting opportunity for the business as well as its Kiwi clients eyeing growth in the Aussie market. 

The Australian operation is led by Olivia Thompson in Sydney and Madison Trevella in Melbourne. Thompson, who has worked with the agency for six years, has relocated from New Zealand and previously led accounts including New World, Mitre 10 and The Warehouse Group. Trevella brings local leadership for key clients such as Chartered Accountants.

“This is a major milestone for Thompson Spencer and I’m excited to shape the next chapter for us,” Thompson said. “Having boots on the ground means we can be more hands-on and in tune with the market. We’re here to deliver creative that challenges, strategy that sharpens and media that gets business results.”