The Shannon Co. CD and MD Emma Hill takes ECD role at M&C Saatchi Melbourne; Paul Taylor takes career break travelling with family in Asia

M&C Saatchi Melbourne has appointed Emma Hill to the role of Executive Creative Director. Hill will work closely with the agency’s Managing Director Andy Cairns and Chief Creative Officer Cam Blackley.

Hill replaces Paul Taylor, who has left for a well-earned career break traveling with his family across Asia. Taylor has been with M&C Saatchi since 1995, apart from a stint running his own agency Day & Age followed by a partner role at ST&P, which was eventually bought by M&C Saatchi.

Prior to joining M&C Saatchi, Hill was the Creative Director and Managing Partner of The Shannon Company, and before that founder and Creative Director at The Charles Grenfell Group. She also held the role of Group Creative Director at Clemenger Melbourne from 2006 to 2011.

Hill’s work has been awarded widely at shows including Cannes (including the Radio Grand Prix), D&AD, Clio, The One Show, NY Festivals, AdFest and MADC.

Says Cairns: “Emma’s a gun. She brings almost twenty years’ experience to the role, having worked with some of Australia’s biggest brands including Carlton and United Breweries beer brands Pure Blond and Strongbow, Dulux, Bupa Health Insurance, Just Jeans, Libra, NAB and AustralianSuper.

“It’s a testament to the kind of agency we are building in Melbourne. She’s a creative powerhouse, a delight to work with and a very smart business person.”

Adds Blackley: “Emma was the only name on the list when I was looking at the future creative leadership of M&C Saatchi. She’s an audacious hire and signals our intention to build our creative offering around world class talent who are as focused on culture as they are the work.”

Says Hill: “Why this role? 
It’s Cam. Who’s creatively brilliant, an amazing leader and just an awesome bloke.
And it’s Andy. Who is one of the best suits I’ve worked with, is passionate about great work and who just makes me laugh.

“The Group is hugely ambitious and passionate about creativity. So, am I. Besides, the three of us have the same haircut. I think it’s a sign.”

Hill will commence at the end of May.