DDB grapples with Willingham exit

AUCKLAND, Today: DDB Worldwide ceo (and NZ chairman) Marty O’Halloran has confirmed the departure of MD Chris Willingham, which comes just days after Priya Patel’s appointment (from DDB Sydney, where she was MD) as NZ group ceo.

Willingham left the ad sector to become CMO of Australian footwear & clothing maker R.M.Williams.

O’Halloran thanked Willingham, who’s originally from the UK)  for his hard work and passion for the business during his time in New Zealand.  

“O’Halloran is now working with Priya Patel ‘on the next steps’.”

“The problem with being the best in your field is that people want what you have. We were lucky to attract someone with Chris’ international experience.

“During his time with DDB Chris has been instrumental in winning and running a number of top clients. We’ll miss him and wish him best of luck in Australia.”

O’Halloran said he was now working with Priya Patel “on the next steps”.