Publicis Groupe ANZ chief executive Michael Rebelo has reshaped the business into one of the region’s most powerful creative, media and technology networks, and 2025 marked a standout chapter.
His acquisition of Atomic 212° supercharged the Groupe’s full-funnel capability, while the launch of Publicis Edge sharpened its AI and innovation agenda.
Publicis Media went on to rank #1 for net-new business across Australia and New Zealand (COMvergence H1 2025), extending a five-year growth streak.
At the same time, the Groupe continued to lead on culture, earning Employer of Choice recognition again, while Rebelo played a key role industry-wide as Chair of the Advertising Council Australia and a board member of the MFA.
His Mediaweek 100 win acknowledges a leader setting the pace across capability, culture and commercial momentum.
1. What does it mean to win an award like this?
I was genuinely humbled to receive this award. To be honest, I felt like a slight imposter, as I’m surrounded by outstanding media agency leaders in the Top 50 and, technically, I’ve never run a media agency.
My background was in leading creative agencies before taking the helm of Publicis Groupe ANZ in 2019. Since then, I’ve been deeply involved in our media practice and an avid student, learning from my exceptional media leaders every day. It has been an absolute masterclass, and I truly believe that to be a good leader, we must first be great students.
My leadership mantra has always been to surround yourself with the best people and focus on coaching, supporting, connecting and inspiring them to do great work.
This award is really a testament to the commitment and professional excellence of my CEOs in Australia, including Imogen Hewitt, Jason Tonelli, Matt Turl, Matt Houltham, Rory Heffernan and Anthony Ellis, who have partnered with me to drive the ongoing growth of our media business.
I also want to recognise Pauly Grant, Chief Talent Officer APAC & ANZ, and Henri Raymond, Chief Financial Officer ANZ, whose leadership and dedication ensure our continued success not just in media, but across our entire connected platform of businesses.
2. Why are awards and events like this important for the industry?
Our business is exciting and dynamic – that’s a big part of why I love what we do.
However, the media and marketing landscape is also becoming more complex, nuanced and challenging. Awards like the Mediaweek Media Agency 50, which celebrate the diversity of talent operating in this environment, are therefore crucial for our industry. Recognition and inspiration help keep our industry striving for excellence and play an important role in attracting and motivating the next generation of leaders.
3. What do you think this recognition says about the direction your company (or the industry) is heading?
We began transforming as a holding company around seven years ago.
We’ve worked hard to build the momentum and progress we’re now experiencing, and our media practice has played a critical role in that success. This is reflected in nine of our leaders making the Mediaweek Media Agency 50 list.
Our media practice ranked #1 for net new business across Australia and New Zealand in H1 (COMvergence 2025) and was further strengthened with the acquisition of Australia’s largest independent media agency, Atomic 212, earlier this year.
While media has been a key driver, the success of Publicis ANZ is ultimately rooted in our connected culture, which brings media, creative, data and digital together to serve our clients’ transformation needs. Mediaweek’s recognition further validates that this culture has created a sustainable, compounding advantage for the Groupe and our clients.
4. Looking ahead, what’s the most significant opportunity or challenge you see for your area of the industry right now?
We will all need to learn fast, fix fast and adapt fast. To remain progressive, competitive and sustainable amid rapid shifts in technology, methodologies, data, AI and automation, we must evolve and operate with that mindset. Agility will be our greatest asset.
5. Who or what has inspired your leadership approach?
Since taking on the ANZ role, I’ve been truly inspired by our global CEO, Arthur Sadoun. His vision, focus, energy and ability to galvanise Publicis Groupe are exceptional.
I’m also energised by the next generation – emerging strategic thinkers, creatives, innovators and leaders. I look to them for inspiration so I continue to stay current, engaged and challenged.