Edge appoints Ben Smith as new ECD as Stu Turner departs after only eight months in the role

Independent creative agency Edge has appointed Ben Smith (pictured above) to the role of executive creative director, following his long stint working with the agency as a contractor. Smith’s appointment follows the exit of ECD and partner Stu Turner (below) from the agency who is taking up a new, soon to be revealed, role.

Smith’s career to date has seen him work in both Australia and the USA, for some of the most respected agencies out there – winning a slew of awards and building a reputation as a heavyweight creative thinker along the way.

Nicole Gardner, managing director says of the changes: “Ben is a lovely human, and a fantastic ECD. His portfolio speaks for itself, and his ability to solve business problems – as well as to mentor and shape teams to make great work – really gelled with us. We’re stoked to have him on board.”

Says Smith: “I’m looking forward to taking the helm at Edge – during my time with them I’ve seen them not only produce some great work, but also get involved with brands in non-traditional ways like joint ventures and with sweat equity that really excites me. The opportunity to join a business that is seeking to evolve what an agency is and does, as well as push the boundaries with the work, was irresistible.”

Gardner says of Turner’s departure: “We enjoyed working with Stu and very much appreciated his contribution. We wish Stu well in his new role.”