Steve Callen departs creative director + director of content role at CumminsRoss, Melbourne
CB Exclusive – After a two and a half year stint Steve Callen, the CD and director of content at CumminsRoss, Melbourne has departed the agency today, a day after the agency won AdNews Agency of the Year.
Callen told CB: “I resigned back in November but stayed longer to finish off some projects. It was an amazing 2.5 years where I had the opportunity to create, write and direct some campaigns I’m very proud of; work that picked up a Cannes Lion and a One Show pencil along the way.
“I was a partner in the agency that grew from 20 people to almost 90, winning a new brand every thirteen days since the doors opened. It was one helluva ride. I’m now moving on to create campaigns and content for clients, agencies and media companies directly, both here and overseas.
“I’ll also continue working with Sean [Cummins] on certain projects, particular when the new office opens in New York. CumminsRoss is a great agency made up of many very talented people. The Agency of the Year award is testament to that. But that’s only the beginning of what I’m sure will be a long history of success.”
Callen is an award winning writer, film director and content creator. His experience has come from over twenty years in advertising, most of which as a creative director of multinational agencies in Adelaide and Melbourne.
His work has been recognised in Cannes, D&AD, The One Show and AWARD. After creating over 400 TV commercials for some of the best brands in Australia, Callen paralleled his career in advertising with new skills he developed in the entertainment industry. He then went on to write, sell and develop feature film projects whilst writing and directing his own award winning short films.
12 Comments
The first of a few big changes here.Stand by for the renaming to Cummins&partners.
Draw your own conclusions from that.
Steve is a unique talent. And will be missed at CumminsRoss I’m sure. Big shoes to fill!
Well done Steve. Must admit, when you were a junior creative at Y&R Adelaide I didn’t think you’d make it. Despite your extreme confidence (read arrogance). I was wrong – unusually 🙂 TB
Enjoy the new ventures Steve. Your passion and creativity will be missed at CR im sure. Looking forward to seeing whats next.
Cumminsross’ loss is the industry’s gain. Ever the gentleman and a damn good creative. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Steve.
a big big loss for CR – but Steve’s undeniable talent and good grace will ensure that his next ventures will
bigger and better than ever. look forward to seeing what happens next.
Steve Callen’s prolific reel/portfolio is the envy of many. Recently think Jeep, Agassi just for openers. No surprise that CumminsRoss grabbed the gong.
Cummins Ross is certainly proving to be an agency on the move. Congratulations on the AdNews Agency Of The Year win. However, Steve Callen will be hard to replace. His proven multi-faceted creative skills are very unique. I have known Steve since he started in the industry and have worked closely with him on a number of occasions. He’s good, exceptionally good. And a good guy. I look forward to seeing what lies ahead for him. And yes TB, you got that one wrong. But I admit, it’s a rarity for you.
All the best buddy. It was a pleasure working with you.
Steve Callen is a gentleman and one of the most talented human beings I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and working with. Coming into this industry as a junior copywriter Steve always had time to teach me the art of writing and the pleasure of red wine. Thanks for everything Callen. X
Having worked with Steve from the early days I echo the comments of David Minear et al….He’s a one of a kind and he’ll be hard to replace. Uniquely talented, passionate and always great fun to work with. Steve, all the best mate, I look forward to hearing all about the next great adventure…..M 🙂
cc was your nick name at clemengers