Chemistry boosts creative firepower with Sarah Chernishov & Matt Watts as creative directors

AUCKLAND, Today Following several new business wins and a number of award-winning creative campaigns last year, Westhaven-based creative indie Chemistry has hired Sarah Chernishov and Matt Watts as creative director.

Chemistry founding partner/ECD Pat Murphy said: “This is a big moment for us. We’re really committed to investing in our creative product and are on a mission for creative excellence, so Matt and Sarah joining us couldn’t come at a better time.

“They’re going to form a huge part of elevating what we already do really well.”

During her many years in advertising, art-based Chernishov has led pitch-winning teams, full-brand campaigns and created innovative digital and media work for clients like ASB and Southern Cross, among many others.

Her work has been recognised at D&AD, AWARD, New York Festivals, Young Guns, One Show, CLIO, The Webbys and Cannes.

“From the moment I walked in as a freelancer, Chemistry made me feel part of the furniture. And not just because they stocked Lion Red for me.”

She says: “I’m excited to be a part of Chemistry’s next chapter of growth, cultivating their culture of creative excellence. They’re also some of the most genuinely good humans; it’s a privilege to be part of the team.”

With 15 years as a writer and creative director, Watts has graced some of New Zealand’s top agencies, leading award-winning campaigns for Audi, PlayStation, Spark, Meridian and Visa along the way.

Passionate about the craft of words and the power of ideas, he’s obsessed with building brands and making tricky stuff feel less tricky.

He says, “From the moment I walked in as a freelancer, Chemistry made me feel part of the furniture. And not just because they stocked Lion Red for me.

“They’re an insanely talented bunch, with genuine family values and exciting creative ambition. I’m stoked to officially join the team and excited to take on more creative leadership.”

Chemistry founding partner/ECD Pat Susan Young said ”‘Matt and Sarah have already been part of the Chemistry family for a number of years now in some shape or form, so to have them on board as Creative Directors  is hugely exciting. We can’t wait to see what magic they’re going to come up with next.”

• chemistry.co.nz