Simon Ryan out of Dentsu Aegis after accepting a new media role

Dentsu Aegis Network (DAN) staff yesterday got a short note telling them the boss was departing.

The CEO for Australian and New Zealand Simon Ryan resigned after accepting what staff were told was a senior role outside the Dentsu Aegis network.

Ryan has been CEO of Dentsu Aegis ANZ since 2016 after spending seven years at Carat in various leadership roles.

Staff were told that Ryan will remain with Dentsu Aegis for the time being while a global and internal and external search is undertaken to find his replacement. No departure date has yet been revealed.

Nick Waters, CEO APAC, DAN, who broke the news of Ryan’s departure to colleagues, said: “During his time Simon has driven extensive change for the group, positively impacting culture, collaboration and commercial performance. I thank Simon for the leadership he has shown throughout his time with Dentsu Aegis Network, and wish him all the best for the future.”

Simon Ryan said: “My time at Dentsu Aegis Network has been an exceptionally rewarding and satisfying experience. I have worked and collaborated with great people to perform challenging and inspiring work, to grow the business and triple its size, over the past nine years. It’s now time for me to embrace the next challenge in my life and focus on a different business. Ahead of my departure I will remain focused on our people and clients, and continue to deliver on the ambitious ANZ plan.”

Ryan has worked in media for more than 25 years including at IPG and WPP before joining Carat’s Melbourne business as managing director in October 2009. He was promoted to CEO of Carat Australia & New Zealand in 2013.

--

Top Photo: Simon Ryan on TV with Mediaweek’s James Manning and Your Money’s Nadine Blayney earlier this year