Indiantelevision.com Team

(26 July 2007 8:58 pm)

MUMBAI: Paris-based Publicis has appointed Matthew Godfrey as CEO of its Asian operations effective 1 August. Matthew Godfrey succeeds Guillaume Lévy-Lambert, regional chairman for over ten years and responsible for the formation of the company's Asia Pacific network.

Lévy-Lambert will continue to advise the organisation on Asian issues in the role of non-executive chairman, according to an official announcement issued by the company.

Publicis has also announced that Calvin Soh, chief creative officer - Asia, will take on the additional role of vice chairman. In this position, Soh will be responsible for boosting further the quality of the agency's creative product.

Publicis Groupe SA chairman and CEO Maurice Lévy said, "Since Guillaume Lévy-Lambert joined Publicis in 1997 he has built the company's presence in Asia from a relatively small operation with just two offices to become a key player in the region, with billings in excess of $ 1 billion, and consistently recognised as one of the region's top three. With this regional network now in place, we are confident that the team led by Matthew Godfrey and Calvin Soh has all the skills to further build our reputation and client base in this highly strategic part of the world."

Publicis Worldwide COO Richard Pinder said, "Matt and Calvin have already formed a formidable team. By promoting the both of them I want to send a strong signal both of our intent to be in the premier league in Asia as well as our determination to become known for our creative quality. Guillaume has prepared the transition beautifully."