Seamus Higgins, the former Chief Creative Officer of R/GA Australia, has joined Havas London as its new Chief Creative Officer, marking a return to the global Havas network. Higgins previously spent six years at Havas/Host Australia (2013–2019) as Executive Creative Director, where he led some of the agency’s most awarded and culturally impactful campaigns, including the iconic Palau Pledge—a purpose-driven initiative that encouraged visitors to the island nation to act responsibly toward its environment and culture. The campaign earned two D&AD Black Pencils, three Cannes Lions Grand Prix, and was named the world’s most awarded campaign of the year, while Havas Host was recognized as Agency of the Year.
After leaving Havas in 2019, Higgins served as VP and Chief Creative Officer at R/GA Australia, before taking a leadership “sabbatical” in London, including a seven-month freelance stint at Uncommon Creative Studio, where he worked on high-profile accounts such as British Airways and B&Q. He returned to R/GA Australia as CCO in 2023 and most recently completed an eight-month tenure as Executive Creative Director at AKQA London.
With more than 25 years of experience across three continents, Higgins has built a reputation for innovative, culturally resonant work that combines creativity with real-world impact. Recognized on Ad Age’s Creative All-Stars list, he has served as a judge and jury president at prestigious forums including D&AD, Cannes Lions, One Show APAC, and Spikes Asia, and frequently speaks at international industry events such as New York Advertising Week and Cannes Lions.
Higgins will officially begin at Havas London on March 26, 2026, reporting to CEO Holly Ripper. Ripper commented:
“Seamus is a creative unicorn and an ambitious, generous leader. His experience spans big brand thinking, digital, design, social, and innovation, and his body of work is a testament to that. Most importantly, it’s work that works—proven by the creative and effectiveness awards he’s amassed. We’re thrilled to have him lead Havas London’s creative vision and unlock the potential of the Village model.”
Higgins added:
“Holly has a bold vision for the next era of Havas London. I’m excited and privileged to help bring that to life with the team. When the right people come together behind a shared ambition, incredible things can happen.”
