Omnicom’s PHD appoints Dentsu executive James Hawkins as APAC CEO

Omnicom global media network PHD has appointed James Hawkins as CEO of its Asia Pacific operations.

Hawkins joins PHD from dentsu X, where he was managing director, APAC.

In the new role, Hawkins will report to Tony Harradine, CEO of Omnicom Media Group Asia Pacific, and Mike Cooper, CEO of PHD Worldwide. The appointment is effective October 2018.

The PHD network first established its APAC operations in 2007.

Tony Harradine said: “Over the years, PHD has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in APAC and shows no signs of slowing down, bringing home the global HSBC account just last month. Given the unique growth opportunities presented to us, we have taken our time to identify the best candidate to take the helm in APAC, one who can harness its energy and continue building an agency of the future. As such, we are thrilled to have James join the team and play an instrumental role in continuing PHD’s incredible success story in the region.”

Mike Cooper said: “APAC represents a very strategic market for us, one that is now starting to set the pace and agenda for global clients and agencies alike. Some of our strongest and most applauded work in 2017 came out of markets like China, India, Australia and New Zealand. With James’s impressive track record of growing agencies in the region and progressing the digital credentials of several prominent brands, we are confident that the network will continue to soar to new heights in APAC.”

“PHD has certainly commanded the industry’s attention over the past few years, surpassing larger competitor networks with its new business and awards performance,” added Hawkins. “However, its strong people-focused culture and impressive talent pool are what have impressed me the most about the network. I am excited to be joining such a dynamic and inspirational team, and look forward to working with them on continuing PHD’s powerful growth journey in Asia Pacific.”