Dentsu has appointed Rob Harvey as Chief Executive Officer for Australia and New Zealand.
Harvey has led dentsu Aotearoa since 2013, after joining the company in 2011 as managing director, media.
He replaces Patricio DeMatteis, who is stepping down after joining in 2023 during the consolidation of 26 brands into five core agency brands.
DeMatteis focused on integrating operations across Australia and New Zealand and building growth areas in data, technology, AI and automation.
Yoshiki Ishihara, Global Chief Strategy Officer & APAC Lead, dentsu said: “Rob’s appointment marks a deliberate and confident step forward for dentsu ANZ, reinforcing our commitment to our people, sharpening the value we deliver to clients and laying the groundwork for more meaningful, impactful outcomes.
“Rob is already deeply embedded in the business and brings a strong track record of building enduring client partnerships, leading with clarity and delivering results. His commercial acumen, deep client understanding and ability to unite teams across markets positions him well to lead ANZ into its next phase with discipline and ambition.”
“This transition aligns to our Mid-Term Management Plan and focus on accelerating growth through Media++. I’d like to thank Patricio for his leadership and for establishing a strong strategic foundation across Australia and New Zealand, uniting capabilities and deepening our focus on future growth levers.”
Harvey has more than 25 years’ experience in media and marketing. At dentsu Aotearoa, he introduced an integrated “one dentsu” model and oversaw work recognised at Cannes Lions, Effies, Axis, Beacons, Marketing Awards and the 2024 IAB Digital Advertising Awards.
He is president of the Commercial Communications Council in New Zealand and a trustee of the Make-a-Wish Foundation Aotearoa. Harvey will split his time between Auckland, Melbourne and Sydney.
Harvey said: “It’s been a privilege to lead dentsu Aotearoa for over a decade. This chapter has shaped me deeply, not only because of the results we’ve delivered together as a team, but the trust we’ve built with clients and the inclusive values-led culture we have fostered.
“As I step into the CEO role across ANZ, I see a powerful opportunity to build on the great work Patricio has done over the past 2.5 years, bringing the full strength of our network across Australia and New Zealand to accelerate how we create value for clients through more integrated, innovative and insight-driven solutions.”
“I’ve spent the past year working more closely with our Australian teams, closely collaborating with Kirsty and Fiona, and have been energised by the ambition, talent and hunger to lead.
“This next chapter is about sharper focus, deeper collaboration and unlocking the potential that comes from truly operating as one. I’m excited to get started, and even more excited to do it alongside such outstanding people.”
Harvey will be based between Auckland, Melbourne and Sydney.
Top image: Rob Harvey