ASIA-PACIFIC – CHINA, AUGUST 12, 2013 – After a two-month search, Omnicom Media Group has promoted PHD China managing director Aaron Wild to chief executive officer, replacing former CEO Mark Heap who moved to MediaCom as Asia Pacific CEO.
Wild, who joined PHD in 2010, has been working in the industry for 20 years, 11 of which he spent in China. Prior to his promotion, he led the Unilever account and was responsible for its ‘Unbeatable’ series, that went on to win a Lion at Cannes, and has been a key driver in PHD China winning Agency of the Year. Just a year ago, he helped secure another three-year appointment from Unilever as part of their global review.
“We are very pleased that Aaron has taken up the challenge to lead PHD, China’s most awarded agency. We had a deep look at candidates inside and outside China and even after that, Aaron still came up as the best candidate. He’ll be charged with taking PHD to the next level of growth through new business and thought leadership, consistent with PHD’s mantra of finding a better way,” said Doug Pearce, Omnicom Media Group’s Greater China CEO.
Cheuk Chiang, CEO of Omnicom Media Group APAC, commented: “Aaron has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills that are instrumental to PHD’s continuing success in China. With his drive, energy and passion, PHD China is sure to scale new heights.”
Wild added: “I am very excited about the opportunity. PHD China is a fantastic agency, with enormous potential for growth, a very unique culture and team of great people that have done some outstanding work for clients and it’s a great foundation for me to build on.”
Wild starts his new role today, August 12, and will report directly Pearce.
