Special hires James Simmons as digital director; Laurent Marcus joins as creative technologist

Special is further investing in its capabilities and growth with the appointments of two highly respected digital and tech experts, digital director, James Simmons and creative technologist, Laurent Marcus.

Following a three-year stint at CHE Proximity as its technology program lead, Simmons joins Special as its digital director. Throughout his career, Simmons has also held various positions at AKQA/DT and worked with brands including Telstra, Bunnings, AGL, AustralianSuper and Channel 9.

Marcus joins Special from Leo Burnett where he spent the last seven years managing the digital production team and concepting interactive work. He was involved with innovative campaigns including Oporto Eat your words, Cheers to a Legend for Bundaberg Rum and Samsung’s brainBAND, Powershare and Pocket Patrol.

Says Cade Heyde, founding partner, Special: “We are very lucky to welcome such brilliant thinkers and humans to the Special team. James and Laurent are incredible talents who will have a big impact on both the type of the work we make and our culture.”

Says Simmons: “As the digital landscape continues to evolve, ensuring the right marriage between creative and technology has become an increasing focus for businesses and I am more than excited to evolve Special’s offering, working alongside such a talented group of people and clients.”

Says Marcus: “Even if we are all in iso, I can already tell that I’ll have a lot of fun working with the talented humans that make Special. The drive for outstanding ideas at Special is both inspiring and daunting, and I can’t wait to take part.”

The two new appointments follow a series of recent successes for the creative company, including being appointed as ANZ’s agency of record and being crowned Global Creative Agency of the Year by Campaign UK. Special’s clients include ANZ, Bonds, CUB, Kayo Sports, Uber Eats, Tourism New Zealand and Red Bull.