Independent creative agency Emotive has appointed Gavin McLeod as its first-ever Chief Creative Officer.
McLeod joins Emotive’s leadership team alongside Founder and CEO Simon Joyce and Executive Strategy Partner Sebastian Revell, and working in partnership with Head of Earned Creative Jessica Cluff.
McLeod acknowledged his new departure is different after a long career in holding companies, including Chep Network and Ogilvy Australia.
“What struck me straight away is that Emotive’s independence isn’t just structural, it’s a mindset,” he said. “The team has a fierce determination to do things differently and to do them properly.
“After years in holding company land, the chance to create big ideas with the speed and freedom of a nimble, fame thinking agency was irresistible. What excites me most is the calibre of people here. Creativity runs through their veins and it’s not something they switch on for the office. From writing screenplays to producing award-winning documentaries, their side projects and passions feed directly into the work.”
CEO Simon Joyce and Head of Earned Creative Jessica Cluff both spoke of how exciting this new appointment is for Emotive.
“This year we turned 10,” said Joyce. “It is a big milestone but for us it has never been about looking back. Gav’s appointment is about building momentum for the next decade.
“His arrival turns our purpose – creating ideas that change how people feel – up even louder and signals the next step in Emotive’s evolution. Gav brings a unique skill set for our clients: a true digital native with a passion for AI and a proven ability to get the best out of creative teams.
Simon Joyce
Cluff added, “In just six weeks Gav has already made an impact with two pitch wins, and I know he will play a huge role in shaping both our work and our culture.”
Emotive has a diverse roster of more than 20 cross-category brands. Other recent hires include Sarah Scott Paul (Director of People and Culture) and Michelle Lomas (Head of Partnerships and Talent).
- Main image: Jessica Cluff and Gavi McLeod.