Former Omnicom Media Group CEO Peter Horgan joins JOY agency as co-principal and group CEO

Former CEO of Omnicom Media Group Peter Horgan has joined JOY agency as a co-principal and group CEO across media, performance, creative, brand and fully integrated offers.

Says Horgan: “I have had a long history with JOY professionally and personally and I am excited by what we can achieve and build together. JOY have invested in a truly connected proposition to help maximise client outcomes in a way we can be proud of. I plan to use my profile and experience as an accelerant for JOY , its clients, and its people.”

Horgan’s comments were echoed by co-founder of JOY, Simon Rush: “Peter is one of the most successful leaders in the industry having overseen consistent growth built on media transparency and accountability at OMG. While we’re not looking to recreate a holdco, we are looking to rapidly accelerate our growth on the back of some key investments, particularly in digital and data capability. We’re particularly excited about the difference he will make for our clients and our people. We couldn’t think of a better person to lead our ambitious growth plans than Horgs.”

The appointment comes on the back of the appointment of Des Odell, Phil Pollock and Matt Keegan, and the winning of Picklebet and Mecca accounts as well as other brand and creative wins.

Says Rush: “It’s a good time to join JOY, for sure.”

Adds Horgan: “The agency has added high level capabilities and connections in performance to complement its existing media, creative and brand strengths, making it a serious scale-up opportunity. The team has a very ambitious agenda for the agency and its clients, plus a renewed sense of energy and urgency. Independents are on the rise, and they’re a whole new challenge for me. I’m looking forward to seeing what a freer, more entrepreneurial model can achieve for clients.”

Horgan starts 1st Oct 2025.