VML has appointed Richard Williams as the new Group Executive Creative Director for its Melbourne and Sydney offices.
“I am delighted to be joining VML later this year. I’ve been waiting a long time for the right opportunity to arrive…” said Williams. “The creative ambition of the agency, the strong and talented leadership, and its technical proficiency made the decision very easy for me. The creative legacy of George Patterson, Young & Rubicam, and JWT is so significant in this country, and I feel privileged to help write the next chapter.”
Williams has spent much of his professional career at Clemenger BBDO, where he has been a driving force behind some of Australia’s most iconic advertising campaigns. His tenure includes a six-year stint as Executive Creative Director, leading major accounts including NAB, TAC, CUB, BMW, MINI, and TABTouch.
At VML, Williams will lead a creative department of over 30 creatives across Melbourne and Sydney, building upon the foundation established by Jake Barrow, who has been promoted to the role of Chief Creative Officer at VML Czech Republic later this year.
Paul Nagy, VML APAC Chief Creative Officer, said, “If I were to list my favorite advertising ideas to ever come out of Australia… Rich has probably done about four of them. Even my Dad was impressed when I showed him his work; believe me when I tell you – that never happens. Rich is super talented, focused on what he wants to achieve, a genuine leader, and a lovely human being…we are so lucky to have him and I can’t wait for him to get started.”
VML Melbourne and Sydney Managing Director, Sarah Bailey, added, “Rich comes highly awarded and highly regarded. When we did our due diligence on Rich, the word quality was mentioned a lot, as was the word talented, and when we met him, it was clear that the rumors were true. These characteristics are essential to me and the team at VML so we’re all excited Rich is joining us to build on the incredible creative spirit Jake has cultivated over the past thirteen years.”
Williams’ appointment is a significant step for VML as it continues to drive creative excellence and innovation in the industry.