VCCP Sydney recruits M&C Saatchi Sydney’s Gary Dawson for ECD + creative partner role

Building on the success of ING Direct, Compare the Market and Fitness First, VCCP Sydney continues its growth with the launch of a new leadership team.

Gary Dawson, M&C Saatchi’s highly respected creative director, joins VCCP as executive creative director and creative partner. Dawson will join managing partner David Kennedy-Cosgrove, whilst Peter Grenfell returns to London to take on a global role at VCCP.

Says Kennedy-Cosgrove: “We’re a challenger agency for challenger clients. Gary joining the agency is a sign of our ambition and commitment to offer clients more than just advertising. He shares our passion for work and thinking that helps clients make their mark, both commercially and culturally. Gary will be joining a talented team and ambitious clients ready to take VCCP to the next level.”

Dawson, who can count awards from D&AD, AWARD, Cannes, New York Festivals and Clio, amongst others, brings with him a wealth of experience across a diverse portfolio of local and international brands, including CommBank, Subaru, 118 118, wotif.com, Pepsi, Diageo and McDonalds. Most recently he helped launch NRMADE BETTER, a new brand platform for NRMA Insurance.

Prior to his time at M&C Saatchi, Dawson held senior creative posts at WCRS London and Clemenger BBDO before becoming deputy creative director at Leo Burnett Sydney.

Charles Vallance, founder and chairman of VCCP: “I’ve worked with Gary before so know first hand that he’s one of the best in the business. VCCP Sydney have a great ECD at the helm who will steer us on to even greater things.”

Says Dawson: “I’ve enjoyed four very successful and unforgettable years at M&C Saatchi and have forged some great relationships working with a bunch of very talented people.

“But I’ve always been a big fan of VCCP and have followed the meteoric rise of their network from afar. ‘Compare the Market’ and ‘Be More Dog’ for UK Telco O2 rank among my “wish I’d done that” moments. I’m a great believer in infectious and memorable work that oozes personality and entertains. So when the opportunity arose to take the creative reins at VCCP Sydney, I didn’t hesitate. The agency has had a fantastic start to life in Australia and these are exciting times for clients. I look forward to working with the team and building on their success.”

(Photo line up – from top left: David Kennedy Cosgrove, Managing Partner; Michele O’Neill, Strategy Director; Gary Dawson, Creative Partner; Suzie Roberts, Business Partner)