Sam Hawkey is joining AMV BBDO as CEO after 12 years at Saatchi & Saatchi London, most recently as its CEO. Hawkey’s career started at Glue Isobar and from there he moved to Saatchi where he held roles including managing partner, managing director and chief operating officer.
Andrew Robertson, global CEO, BBDO Worldwide, said, “Sam has an infectious energy and passion for creativity, a refreshingly crisp perspective on the future of the business, and a proven ability to lead. He asks good questions and listens hard. It’s no wonder he is as effective as he is at connecting both with clients and his people”.
Hawkey said, “Having once stood outside the AMV offices as an account manager ready for an interview, I got the distinct feeling I was entering the creative pinnacle. Since then, I have watched with a deep respect at their ability to consistently transform businesses and brands with an unwavering belief in the power of creative ideas. Now I get the opportunity to work with Alex (Grieve, chief creative officer) and the team to shape, grow and transform one of the most iconic agency brands in the world and I simply can’t wait to get going”.
Grieve stated, “Sam has a curiosity that means he is naturally attracted to the new: new media, new models, new ways of working. But, and this is what makes him so interesting, he is wise enough to understand the value of timeless principles. The power of a great idea, the power of great client relationships, the unifying power of culture. In a remarkably short space of time, Sam has grown into an extraordinary leader. Now he will help us grow”.
Hawkey will join the agency in the coming months. Michael Pring, deputy chairman and CMO of AMV BBDO, will be acting CEO until Hawkey starts.
AMV BBDO just won a Black Pencil at the D&AD 2021 and six Grand Prix at The One Show 2021, being named Agency of the Year in both shows.
