Leaders change at Saatchi NZ

AUCKLAND, Today: Publicis Groupe NZ has this morning announced the appointment of Mark Cochrane to the newly created dual role of ceo of Saatchi & Saatchi NZ, and chief growth officer of Publicis Groupe NZ.

Cochrane replaces current MD Paul Wilson, who leaves for parts unknown.

Publicis Groupe’s Sydney-based AUNZ ceo Michael Rebelo said: “The groupe has undergone significant expansion over the past year in New Zealand – with the acquisitions of Digitas Affinity ID and MBM nearly doubling our footprint in the market in 2019, and the launch of our MSL PR network in August 2020.

“As a result of this expansion, we have needed to look afresh at the leadership structure in New Zealand and have taken the decision to create this new role.

“I am delighted that Mark will be returning to his Kiwi roots after seven standout years with the network, building his experience. 

“I have every confidence in Mark’s leadership. He comes with a strong track record, having led a number of our Saatchi businesses already, creating great work – most recently, the ‘Donation Dollar’ and driving growth in both the agency and across the Groupe. It’s fantastic to have him return home.”

“We are delighted that Mark will be returning to his Kiwi roots after seven standout years with the network,”

Mark Cochrane has worked with Saatchi and the Publicis Groupe in New Zealand and around the network for over 10 years. He has spent the last five years as MD of Saatchi & Saatchi Melbourne, having launched the agency in 2015.

Before joining Saatchi Australia, he spent two years as the ceo of Saatchi & Saatchi Thailand, and prior to this, he was the group business lead at Saatchi NZ on Toyota, DB Breweries, House of Travel and special projects with Air New Zealand.

Mark Cochrane said: “As a patriotic New Zealander, I am excited by 2021. What we can achieve as a nation right now is important, limitless and something Saatchi & Saatchi New Zealand can very much be a part of.

“With regards to the dual Publicis Groupe role, I have always been driven to deliver growth for clients. Now with the recent Publicis Groupe acquisitions of MBM, Digitas Affinity ID and the launch of MSL, we can truly create connected platforms and solutions for any challenge.”

“Paul Wilson and I have agreed that it is the right time for him to hand over the reins and for a new leader to take us forward.”

Michael Rebelo: “With this new model, however, comes the need for change, and as part of this process, NZ MD Paul Wilson and I have agreed that it is the right time for him to hand over the reins and for a new leader to take us forward.

Paul has had an incredible track record with the agency – building a strong, inclusive culture and delivering world-class work for our clients.

We would like to thank Paul for the contribution he has made to Saatchi & Saatchi during his nearly eight years with the agency. From group business director to GM and then MD, he has been a stellar performer and all-round good human to work with.

Paul Wilson said: “Although naturally it is sad to be leaving after eight years, I also feel a huge sense of pride and satisfaction to be departing on such a high, having produced the world-class work we did.

“No one has more Saatchi & Saatchi blood in their veins than Mark, so I know he’s the ideal person to build on this momentum and take the agency forward.”

Where to for Paul Wilson?
Mark Cochrane will begin his role in New Zealand early in the New Year. The Saatchi release advising M+AD of these changes did not mention what the future holds for Paul Wilson.