John McLaren appointed chairman of The Communications Council in SA; Lauren Rowett appointed education + member services manager

Industry veteran John McLaren (left) has been reappointed chairman of The Communications Council in South Australia, taking over the role this month from his successor, Jamie Scott, who held the position since July 2011.

Returning with a refreshed perspective, McLaren looks to reenergise membership in the state by focusing on the services and resources available, particularly for smaller agencies and individual members in the South Australian market. 

Supporting McLaren and the expanding membership base, Lauren Rowett, previously account manager at Clemenger BBDO Adelaide, will also be welcomed on board as education and member services manager.

Broadening education and development options will be high on the agenda, with plans to build greater links between the industry and local universities. Legal and regulatory training will also be a focus, as well as ensuring industry representation through strong and continued government engagement.

Says McLaren: “I am passionate about this industry and the positive contribution it continues to make to brands here and throughout Australia. The Communication Council delivers a diverse and powerful support structure that includes education, professional development and industry advice. This helps local members to not only remain relevant and competitive but to grow and successfully compete on a national stage.”

With 28 years’ experience in the advertising industry, McLaren has acquired a deep understanding of the needs of local agencies and creative practitioners. Currently operating in Adelaide as a consultant, he started his career at FCB Hocking as an account manager, he has since worked for George Patterson, Bottomline, Y&R and for the past thirteen years, Clemenger BBDO Adelaide. His experience has seen him work on a significant number of brands, many national and international and in most categories.

Says Rowett: “This is a big and exciting change for me. With 10 years’ agency experience behind me, I’m looking forward to applying the inside knowledge I have gained to developing services that will be of real value to those in this industry. I look forward to meeting with both our existing and potential members in the near future.”

Margaret Zabel, CEO of The Communications Council welcomed the new appointments, noting McLaren’s return as a reflection of his dedication both to the role and to the industry.

She also thanked Jamie Scott, stating: “Jamie Scott has played an invaluable role over the past two years in raising the standards of our industry in Adelaide and working to ensure the quality of creative work in the area is recognised among the marketing and business community.”