Former Ogilvy Sydney ECD Chris Ford departs CCO role at DraftFCB SF after just over a year
Ever wondered what happened to Chris Ford, the former ECD at Ogilvy Sydney who lasted less than a year in that role before returning home to the USA in June last year?
Well, soon after arriving back in his home town San Francisco, Ford, who made his rep at Goodby Silverstein – was hired as chief creative officer of Draft FCB but, just over a year into the job, CB hears he is on the move again – to pursue other opportunities. Hopefully to a creative shop that appreciates his talent.
The highlight of Ford’s time in Sydney was his creation of the brilliant multi-awarded Coke ‘Names’ campaign, which won Ogilvy its first major awards since the early 90s.
His departure from Ogilvy came as no surprise to some industry observers, echoing Publicis Mojo, Melbourne’s appointment of American ECD Franklin Tipton, who also left within a year. Both Ford and Tipton were hired from Goodby’s San Francisco.
6 Comments
Being a good creative and being a good manager are two separate skills that are rare to find in one individual. Chris is not that individual.
I heard he was great to work for. Scared management a little at Ogilvy because the suit side didn’t like giving up their role as ECD.
Agree with uh huh. He is a great creative but lacks the bullshit skills that most ecd’s need these days.
The senior creatives/CDs at Ogilvy are suits in sandshoes.
That’s why the won’t win another award for another 20 years, unless the hire another award winner like Ford.
You need to get a computer. The ‘Y’ seems to have fallen off your typewriter.
Never met the guy, but only ever heard good things. Whenever I see his picture it always reminds me on a retouched year book pic.