Melanie Spencer named CEO of the Year at Women Leading Change Awards

Thompson Spencer CEO and Co-Founder Melanie Spencer has been awarded CEO of the Year category at Campaign Asia-Pacific’s Women Leading Change Awards, now in its ninth year.

The event, held in Singapore on Monday, highlights the high-level innovation and impact by honouring trailblazing women who are shaping the future.

Spencer was awarded the only commendation in the category and was the only finalist from Australia or New Zealand.

Over the last year, she has overseen the full integration of Thompson Spencer’s multiple business units into one full-service offering, opened new offices in Australia and led the successful merger with performance agency Reason - making Thompson Spencer one of New Zealand’s largest independent agencies.

Spencer said of her recognition: "It was already very humbling to be shortlisted, but to receive a commendation - and as the only Kiwi or Aussie recognised - it’s honestly just incredible."

"What this commendation really is though, is a reflection of the amazing ambition and energy of our whole team and the wonderful clients who put their trust in us and back what we do.

"I’m so proud of what we’ve built together and where we’re heading next. I’d like to extend big congratulations to the winner, Sue-Ann Lim of Universal McCann Malaysia, as well as my very heartfelt thanks to the judging panel - which included many leaders I’ve long admired."

Last month, Thompson Spencer expanded into Australia launching offices in Sydney and Melbourne.

The agency already services clients in the Australian market including Wattyl, Seagrass Hospitality Group, Chartered Accountants and DoorDash with the move coming hot on the heels of a landmark merger with performance media agency Reason, forming one of New Zealand’s largest full-funnel independent agencies.

Top image: Melanie Spencer

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