Icon Agency appoints Andrew North as creative director as agency continues rapid growth

Icon Agency has appointed Andrew North – more commonly known as “Northy” – to creative director, bringing a wealth of experience from some of the biggest names in advertising.

Adding to Icon’s senior creative credentials and ever-expanding team, North has previously worked as associate creative director at McCann, was a senior creative at agencies like M&C Saatchi and Clemenger BBDO, and has more recently worked as a freelancer, throughout his long career.

North said working with Icon as a freelancer opened his eyes to the values behind the agency and the opportunities to contribute to exciting, purpose-driven projects: “Icon’s work speaks for itself. I’m excited to become a permanent part of the team and join such a forward-thinking group.

“Having had the opportunity to well and truly get to know the people within the agency and what their strengths are, I’m able to hit the ground running as creative director.”

North brings an abundance of experience having been involved with some of Australia’s biggest brands such as Qantas, ANZ, Target, Vodafone, Nissan, Mercedes Benz, as well as a keen passion for integrated campaigns.

Icon’s managing director, Joanne Painter, said North’s appointment will take the agency’s already-strong integrated capabilities to the next level: “We are incredibly excited to have Andrew North on board as Icon’s new creative director, and he was welcomed with open arms from every department.

“At Icon, we pride ourselves on delivering intrinsically integrated campaigns, drawing on our expertise in digital, design, PR and reputation management. Northy is an expert in understanding how to translate creative concepts across these mediums – and still always resonate with the audience.

“Plus his friendly and energetic character makes him a pleasure to work with, for colleagues and clients alike.”

The senior hire comes off the back of rapid growth for the agency over the last year, including more than 20 new clients and a 20% increase in staff since the beginning of 2020.

Throughout this period, Icon has maintained its focus on building a truly integrated national agency and providing creative and innovative projects that have positive impact.