NEW YORK, USA – Global creative innovation company R/GA has announced the appointment of internationally acclaimed design leader Ren Rigby as its first-ever Global Chief Brand Officer.
Rigby, formerly known as Mike Rigby, re-joins R/GA from Proto—the design and innovation consultancy they co-founded. Reporting to Tiffany Rolfe, Chair and Global Chief Creative Officer of R/GA, Rigby will focus on elevating the agency’s new independent positioning while evolving its global brand identity. Their mandate also includes branding R/GA’s AI products and blueprint ecosystem, further strengthening the company’s growth trajectory.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome Ren back to R/GA. They are one of the most inspirational and awarded multidisciplinary design leaders in our industry,” said Tiffany Rolfe, Chair and Global Chief Creative Officer of R/GA. “Ren’s experience at creating at the intersection of design and innovation will be invaluable in helping us to codify our brand for this new AI era. At a time when generative technology can create infinite possibilities, it’s Ren’s craft — their ability to bring clarity, beauty, and purpose through design — that will ensure our brand and products stand apart with a distinctly human touch.”
For Rigby, the return marks both a professional and personal milestone. “Coming back to R/GA feels like coming home. For over four decades, R/GA has turned technological change into cultural breakthroughs that matter to people. This is the place where design has always met what’s next.”
The appointment follows R/GA’s transition into an independent, privately held company in partnership with Truelink Capital. Since then, the agency has invested heavily in talent, product development, partnerships, and acquisitions – most recently with AI system design studio Addition.
Rigby’s career spans over two decades, having co-founded R/GA’s Business Transformation practice and served as Global Head of Brand, leading breakthrough projects for Nike, Google, Shopify, and PepsiCo, among others. Their experience also includes roles at Pentagram London, True North, Landor, and Interbrand, as well as chairmanship of the Australian Graphic Design Association. Recognized with numerous international accolades including DDB’s prestigious Bill Bernbach Award for Creative Brilliance – Rigby has also served as a juror for top global design competitions such as Cannes Lions, D&AD, and The One Show.
With Rigby’s appointment, R/GA continues to cement its reputation as a creative force uniquely positioned to shape brands for the intelligence age – merging design, innovation, and technology to create meaningful cultural impact.
