Engine appoints former Khemistry Client Services Director François Hafner to General Manager
While much of the industry tightens belts and hedges bets, Engine has made a decisive move appointing François Hafner as General Manager.
With almost 15 years’ experience across Australia and the UK, Hafner brings with him a world-class portfolio, a sharp strategic mind, and a steady hand that’s helped shape some of the industry’s most awarded and talked-about work.
He’s the force behind Audi’s “Clowns” campaign – an idea that not only turned heads but swept metal globally: Grand Prix at the IPA Effectiveness Awards, a Graphite Pencil at D&AD, and Campaign’s “Best of the Best”.
He’s rebranded giants, launched a car, and directed fragrance shoots with Hollywood A-listers without breaking a sweat.
He’s worked across industries – FMCG, luxury, energy, government, and not-for-profit – with clients like Audi, AGL, Heinz, The Lott, Hugo Boss, and the Queensland Government.
But what sets Hafner apart isn’t just the CV. It’s his ability to cut through complexity with calm confidence, rally teams with infectious optimism, and consistently deliver sharp thinking and smarter ways of working.
Says Engine Managing Director, Tim Weger: “When I first met Franc, I knew he was our kind. I walked away energised and realised immediately how big an impact he’d have on the business. He’s a big thinker with a global viewpoint. Super hungry, deeply invested in the creative product and knows his best years are ahead of him. An exciting proposition for an agency on a relentless pursuit to make tomorrow better than today. It was an easy decision to create space for him.”
Hafner’s appointment marks a significant moment in Engine’s evolution. Following a period of accelerated growth and standout creative work – including the agency’s Bravehearts campaign and the recent hire of globally awarded creative Joe Hawkins – Hafner joins at a time when ambition is high, and momentum is building.
Says Hafner: “I’ve admired Engine from afar for a few years, and the recent Bravehearts campaign really made me sit up and take notice. It’s the kind of powerful, purposeful work that we all want to be a part of. The kind of work you don’t see every day.
“When I met Tim, I felt the ambition he has for the future of his agency. That’s something you can’t help but want to be part of. Having spent a few days with the team, it’s clear the talent, smarts and camaraderie are here in spades. I’m excited to help build on that momentum and the amazing history of an agency with 25 years of independent, Brissy heritage.”
Pictured above (L-R): Mike Fritz, Creative Director; François Hafner, General Manager; Tim Weger, Managing Director
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