Colony announces the promotion of Simon Buutveld to executive creative director

Colony has announced the promotion of Simon Buutveld as executive creative director to lead its Asia-Pacific team.

Buutveld joined the agency in September 2020, and his elevation to the role is in recognition of his contribution to Colony’s fast development.

Buutveld has led for key client wins including Kina Bank, UNICEF, Jumbo Interactive, Queensland Country Bank, Starlight, Colgate-Palmolive, Goodman Fielder PNG, and Tisa.  

Buutveld has been awarded around the world for creating change, notably “Hero Time” winning a Clio for re-inventing the Bridge to Brisbane fundraising mechanic and doubling the funds raised. He believes the chance to innovate arises from trusting business partnerships, partnerships that start in the office.

Matt McCarthy, founder of Colony, said of Buutveld’s appointment: “Simon is truly impressive. He has a rare intensity and passion for solutions that go beyond advertising.

“He’s had a big impact on our business so far and is the right pick to evolve our team into one of the most effective in the country.”

Buutveld said of his appointment: “A role that lets you craft new solutions and ways to do business is a dream for me. Our Asia-Pacific client base offers the unique opportunity to start with a blank page. Often, we’re selling an entire category rather than a brand, and it’s really exciting.”

Buutveld believes the Colony creative team has a rare curiosity that comes from working in two countries: “There’s a culture of picking up the phone and wanting to know more, rather than making assumptions. It promotes an empathetic attitude which leads to better creative.”

Buutveld also has a strong reputation for design craft in Queensland and is behind many major rebrands including City of GOLDCOAST and Brisbane Roar. He will lead a team of five creatives and nine designers across three locations, with plans to keep bolstering Colony’s creative stable.

This appointment comes after the agency welcomed Dianne Grice as its new client service director last month.

See also: Colony Group welcomes Dianne Grice as its new client service director

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Top image: Simon Buutveld