Kimberlee Wells promoted to CEO, TBWA\Australia

TBWA has confirmed the appointment of Kimberlee Wells as chief executive officer of TBWA\Australia, expanding her leadership across both the Sydney and Melbourne markets.

For nearly a decade Wells has led TBWA\Melbourne, steering the agency through sustained growth. During this time, she has built enduring client partnerships, including NAB and Australian Defence Force Recruiting, and with client partners, guided the agency to deliver work which has resulted in record impact – be that commercial, brand health and customer satisfaction.

Prior to joining TBWA in 2011, Wells was General Manager of M+C Saatchi’s Mark. Before that she was GM of Clemenger Proximity and head of direct at M+C Saatchi Sydney. Wells has also had previous stints at George Patterson Y&R and Wunderman.

Wells’ appointment comes as Omnicom’s Oceania model takes effect across Australia and New Zealand under the leadership of Nick Garrett as CEO, who was appointed to the role in July.

Omnicom Oceania enhances the strength of each of its agencies through a bedrock of scale, data and technology; enabling every client to access more, specialist talent, grounded in the very best of creativity. It allows each agency to thrive and grow, but with stronger foundations than ever.

Under Wells’ leadership, TBWA will leverage this new operating structure to amplify its Disruption® philosophy, delivering unfair commercial advantage for its clients, and unrivalled opportunity for its talent.

Says Garrett: “I’ve known Kimberlee for more than a decade and have huge respect for her. She’s passionate, tenacious and curious – qualities that make her stand out as a leader. Her ability to build strong client partnerships and lead people with conviction sets her apart.

“As CEO of TBWA\Australia, Kimberlee will define the agency’s vision, setting it up for even greater success. I’m looking forward to working closely with her and her leadership team to design the future for our clients, supported by the full strength of Omnicom Oceania.”

Says Wells: “I’m delighted to accept the role of CEO for TBWA\Australia. Working alongside Nick and our national leadership team, our clients will experience the full potency of TBWA’s Disruption® philosophy, amplified by the scale and capability that only Omnicom can offer.”

Says Erin Riley, Global CEO, TBWA\Worldwide: “Disruption® has always been the heartbeat of TBWA, creativity that challenges convention and builds growth which lasts.

“Kimberlee is the right leader to carry TBWA\Australia into this next chapter. She brings clarity in complexity and conviction in creativity, alongside a track record of strong commercial problem solving with her client partners. She is equal parts head and heart, and I can’t wait to see what she does next.”

Wells will also continue in her global role as Practice Lead of Sustain by TBWA.