Omnicom Media, an Omnicom Connected Capability has announced the appointment of Joey Zhao as Chief Executive Officer, China, effective immediately.
Joey brings over 20 years of cross-industry experience and a sophisticated understanding of how technology is reshaping business. As CEO, he will lead strategic planning and operations across Omnicom Media China, driving the organisation’s AI-driven transformation. By leveraging the Omni AI intelligence platform, he will help clients unlock measurable business value in an increasingly evolving digital landscape.
Joey combines strategic acumen with sharp technological insight. His career spans roles in the Shanghai municipal government, media, legal practice, consulting, and marketing technology. It is a unique background that enables him to identify breakthrough opportunities beyond the conventional agency model and deliver results from both commercial and technological perspectives.
His appointment recognizes his proven track record. As Chief Operating Officer of Omnicom Media China earlier this year, Joey’s keen industry foresight and exceptional leadership helped the team secure multiple marquee clients. During his five-year tenure leading PHD China, he delivered consecutive annual renewals and strategic growth from core clients, propelling the agency to the top of the 2024 China 4A Agency Network New Business Rankings.
As AI reshapes how businesses operate, Joey is positioning technological innovation and data-driven strategy at the centre of Omnicom Media China’s growth.
“Joey brings a rare combination of commercial acumen, entrepreneurial thinking, and deep understanding of how technology is reshaping our industry. His ability to connect business strategy, client growth, and AI-driven innovation makes him uniquely positioned to lead Omnicom Media China into its next chapter. China remains one of the world’s most dynamic and influential markets, and under Joey’s leadership, I am confident we will continue to strengthen our market-leading position by unlocking new opportunities for clients and delivering sustainable growth in an increasingly intelligent and connected marketing ecosystem,” Tony Harradine, CEO, Omnicom Media APAC commented.
“The marketing ecosystem in China is undergoing a fundamental shift from ‘traffic competition’ to ‘intelligent decision-making,'” Joey said.
“AI is no longer just an enabling tool; it is the core productive force driving business growth. Omnicom Media China will no longer be confined to the traditional role of a media agency. Instead, we aim to become our clients’ Chief Growth Officer in the AI era. By leveraging the Omni AI intelligence platform, we will integrate full-link data and technology, embedding AI capabilities into every stage from strategy and creativity to media execution and performance measurement, helping brands achieve a comprehensive leap from precise targeting to tangible business conversion.”
