BMF’s Josie Fox and DDB’s Tom Lawrence named AWARD School National Co-Chairs for 2026

AWARD School, Australia’s training ground for creative talent, has announced a new lineup of program leaders for 2026. Stepping into the role of National & NSW Co-Chairs are Josie Fox, Creative Director at BMF Australia, and Tom Lawrence, Creative Director at DDB Sydney.

They succeed Sharon Edmondston (ECD, The General Store) and Scott Dettrick (National ECD, M+C Saatchi ANZ), who have spent the past two years helping students master the art of human creativity in an age increasingly defined by AI.

In South Australia, Rory Kennett-Lister, Creative Director at Showpony, takes over as SA School Head from Corey Swaffer (former ECD, KWPX), while Shyaire Ganglani and Seamus Fagan, Associate Creative Directors at Leo Australia, will jointly lead AWARD School’s Online Program, taking the reins from Kiah Nicholas (Senior Creative, Wieden+Kennedy).

Says AWARD Chair, Mandie van der Merwe: “Our new national leadership team, Josie and Tom, bring fresh perspective and creative firepower to a program that continues to evolve with the industry, and 2026 will be no exception.

“We’re thrilled to welcome them and our new state heads, while farewelling Sharon, Scott, Corey and Kiah, who have been exceptional leaders. Their fearless drive for innovation and fresh thinking has elevated AWARD School, and their impact will be felt for years to come. A huge thank you also to our continuing state leaders, tutors and mentors for their ongoing dedication and passion.”

2026 AWARD School Heads

NATIONAL / NSW
Josie Fox, Creative Director, BMF Australia
Tom Lawrence, Creative Director, DDB Sydney

VICTORIA (continuing)
Ryan Clayton, Creative Director, The Taboo Group
Huei Yin Wong, Senior Art Director

QUEENSLAND (continuing)
Ryan Petie, Executive Creative Director, Publicis Worldwide

WESTERN AUSTRALIA (continuing)
Tim Newton, Creative Director, St John WA

SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Rory Kennett-Lister, Creative Director, Showpony

ONLINE
Shyaire Ganglani and Seamus Fagan, Associate Creative Directors, Leo Australia

To find out more about AWARD School 2026, register for the free Info Night on 3 February. Applications open 5 February 2026.