Chris Ellis and Chris Andrews join Special Australia as creative directors in Melbourne

Special Australia’s growth continues in Melbourne with new hires Chris Ellis and Chris Andrews joining the team as creative directors.

‘The Chrises’ as they’ve affectionately become known, have been recognised at all major award shows including Gold at Cannes, One Show, Clio Grand Prix, Effies, Spikes, AWARD, D&AD pencils and in-book, as well as 17 nods at the Sirens and multiple ‘Campaign of the Year’ and ‘Best in Show’ gongs.

While they share the same moniker, Chris & Chris have worked with varied and some of the most storied names in Australian advertising – nearly every agency acronym including DDB, BMF, CHEP, JWT, TBWA plus Cummins & Partners and The Monkeys. With over 30 years’ combined experience across just about every category, they’ve respectively driven a slew of account wins, Agency of the Year titles and award-winning work for Jeep, Specsavers, Carsales, Chemmart, the RSL, Radiant, RACV, Westpac, Woodstock Bourbon, Movember and many more.

Says Tom Martin, CCO and partner, Special: “The Chrises are a pair that once you get in the door, you don’t let them leave. They’re both not only remarkably talented but they radiate a glass-half-full-never-give-up-spirit that’s incredibly infectious. They’re already having a hugely positive impact on all the work they’ve touched.”

Chris said “Chris and I think the same way, and since we started at Special Group all we’ve thought about is staying. The Special family has welcomed us with open arms and briefs. We share the same values and views that continue to define what makes work uniquely ‘Special’. I’m thrilled by the opportunity to help build the Melbourne office. Pretty sure other Chris agrees.”

Says Bec Stambanis, CSO and partner, Special: “Chris and Chris are exactly the kind of hearts and minds we want here in Melbourne. They’re simply great for the work and great for the culture. With Ryan (Fitzgerald) starting soon as ECD, and with the welcome addition of the Chrises, our creative firepower is only growing more formidable.”

Chris Ellis and Chris Andrews have already officially started their roles as creative directors at Special Australia.