Jolly Roger

AUCKLAND, Tuesday: TBWA NZ has taken a full-page ad in the Business section of Tuesday’s NZ Herald to score quick points from the rash of unexpected NZ agency management changes at the top level (think DDB and FCB).

The ad’s heading reads: “We would like to announce no changes to our current leadership team.”

The copy gets straight to the point: “The advertising industry is going through major disruption at the top. And although we believe that disruption gives our clients’ business an unfair advantage, we’d like everyone to know that when it comes to people, it’s about stability.”

“So you can still call Catherine Harris or Shane Bradnick on their usual numbers. Whenever you like.”

TBWAEleven NZ’s Ian Benet told M+AD: “The NZ Herald press format allowed us to be relevant and topical at speed, while delivering impact.

“We could create and supply the ad fast, and as always the team at the Herald were super-accommodating.

“Being in the Business section allowed for a placement that would be visible to our people and our partners.”

“It is also a perspective on the industry that needed some serious reach, so being in the Business section allowed for a placement that would be visible to our people and our partners.

“There’s still power in print.”

Catherine Harris said: “With all the changes in leadership in the industry right now, speculation of change just isn’t part of the TBWA narrative.

“We wanted our people and our partners to know that the team we have built is as committed as ever. So what better way to do that than with an ad?

“While we are The Disruption Company, sometimes the most disruptive thing to do is to stay committed to your vision, your path, your people and your partners.

“Plus it feels like everyone needed a bit of fun.”

The agency chose not to supply creative credits.