DDB Sydney promotes head of planning Fran Clayton to the role of chief strategy officer

DDB Sydney has announced the promotion of its head of planning, Fran Clayton, to chief strategy officer (CSO), DDB Sydney.

Clayton joined DDB in 2013 as planning partner from Publicis Mojo New Zealand and was promoted to head of planning in 2014. Clayton has run a very modern planning department as well as personally spearheading the strategy for the multi-award winning McDonald’s.

Says Nicole Taylor, managing director, DDB Sydney: “Fran is one of the best planners and strategic thinkers I have worked with. She was the lead strategist on the successful Volkswagen Commercial vehicles pitch and subsequent ‘Naked Ute’ campaign for Amarok, which challenges people to look beneath the surface and defies the conventions of ute advertising in Australia.

“I have enjoyed a successful partnership with Fran over the past three years and she has proven herself an outstanding strategic and business leader.”

Says Andrew Little, CEO, DDB Group Australia: “Fran is a very worthy strategic lead and working alongside the tireless DDB Sydney Managing Director, Nic Taylor, this is a truly formidable partnership.”

Says Clayton on her new role: “My time at DDB Sydney has been amazing for many reasons but most importantly, the culture and the people make it an outstanding place to work and create.  It is my personal ambition to ensure the next generation of strategic and creative thinkers have more female mentors. I want to see more creative work that celebrates diversity and modern Australian perspectives.”

DDB Group Australia will soon be announcing a new business venture that will be headed by DDB’s managing director strategy and innovation, Leif Stromnes. Clayton replaces Stromnes as strategic lead for Sydney while Stromnes moves into a national role. Official news to come in the following weeks.