Local media industry icon Venus Navalta retires this September and turns the control of Universal McCann over to Dino Laurena, Harrison Communications’ former managing partner.
Venus Navalta grew Universal McCann Philippines into one of the largest and most respected media agencies in the country, and within the UM network globally. Currently, UM Philippines handles media AOR duties for some of the biggest local and regional advertisers, including Globe Telecoms, J&J and Jollibee.
Under her reign, the agency garnered a string of local and international accolades, including winning Media Agency of the Year five times. This June, UM won its highest recognition yet: a Bronze Lion in Cannes and a Bronze award at the Asian Marketing Effectiveness Awards for its “Botelya” campaign for J&J.
McCann Worldgroup President and CEO Ricki Arches said, “Venus will leave UM with an enduring legacy, as the driving force that propelled the agency to the top in this highly competitive media marketplace. Her outstanding leadership, valuable insights and remarkable contributions will remain as source of inspiration and positive influence.”
After her exit from agency life, she will concentrate on her new passions, traveling and social entrepreneurship. She will also provide managerial and financial support to her son’s fledgling guitar business.
The youthful Navalta had initially broached the topic of retirement with McCann Worldgroup in 2007, but her plans were delayed by the search for a suitable replacement.
Last year, she decided on Dino Laurena, who was co-managing partner of Harrison Communications. However she had to wait for Laurena to tie loose ends and prepare for Universal McCann.
As one of the founders and managing partners, Laurena grew Harrison Communications (McCann’s second advertising agency) into the third largest ad agency in the country.
Laurena spent the most of his advertising career with McCann Philippines, but he held previous account management stints with Dentsu, Young & Rubicam, Lowe, Saatchi & Saatchi and JWT.
His more recent experience in managing the Globe Telecom business at Harrison has attuned him to developments in the digital space, which may help strengthen UM Philippines in this arena.
