IMANZ adds top talent to leadership

AUCKLAND, Today: IMANZ has just launched its very first Leadership Team, bringing together five senior leaders from independent media agencies.

In May, IMANZ called for applicants at their partner showcase, and the response was fantastic, with many high-quality candidates stepping up.

The leadership team is set to tackle five main projects to boost IMANZ’s growth, support its members, and push the industry forward. They’ll also assist the IMANZ Board of Directors with succession planning.

Natalia Taylor, Founder & Director, Momentum Group – Innovation & Technology
This team will focus on leveraging new tech and digital innovations for media planning, buying, and analytics. They’ll run workshops, share best practices, and explore tech partnerships to keep members at the cutting edge.

Courtney Newton, Joint Head of Media, Stanley St – Training & Development
This group aims to up-skill the workforce, coordinating training sessions, certification programs, and continuous professional development opportunities.

Zane Furtado, GM Technology & Innovation, Acquire – Regulatory & Compliance
Tasked with monitoring media regulations and advertising standards, this team will keep agencies informed about compliance and advocate for the industry with regulatory bodies.

“I’m incredibly excited about the calibre of leaders we’ve got onboard to help drive the next generation of indie agencies forward.” – Sean McCready

Bridget Whalley, Client Principal, Together – Research & Insights
Focusing on market research, this group will provide insights on trends, consumer behaviour, and effective media strategies. They’ll produce reports and case studies to keep members informed.

Melanie Spencer, Group CEO, Co-founder, and Director, Thompson Spencer – Networking and Partnerships
This team will build relationships, organise networking events, foster partnerships, and explore cross-industry collaborations.

Sean McCready, founder of MBM, will mentor the Leadership Team, sharing his experiences from growing and exiting one of New Zealand’s largest independent agencies.

“I’m incredibly excited about the calibre of leaders we’ve got onboard to help drive the next generation of indie agencies forward,” says McCready. “At this stage in my career, it gives me a huge amount of satisfaction to be able to help other agency leaders on their journeys, and I’m more convinced than ever about the value of an independent offer.”

IMANZ General Manager, Kath Mitchell, adds: “This Leadership Team is geared up to deliver a raft of valuable learning, process, opportunities, and development to our IMANZ members.

“What I’m really loving about being on the inside of this tight-knit indie sector is how passionate everyone is about giving back, and creating a rising tide that lifts all boats!”