Melbourne creative agency Taboo appoints Frannie Rhodes as managing partner

Melbourne independent creative agency Taboo has snared US agency heavyweight Frannie Rhodes as managing partner. 

Rhodes brings a wealth of experience from more than 25 years in iconic US agencies, including Goodby Silverstein & Partners, TBWA\CHIAT\DAY New York, MullenLowe and Strawberryfrog. Rhodes is credited with playing a pivotal role in the creative and design renaissance of these agencies. 

In her role at Taboo, she will be tasked with spearheading agency growth, with a specific focus on talent acquisition and development initiatives, as well as driving creative and operational excellence for the agency. 

The move to Taboo sees Rhodes reunite with former Strawberryfrog colleague James Mackinnon, group managing director of Taboo.

Mackinnon said, “Having known Frannie for over 14 years – and seen the impact she can have on an agency, I could not be more excited to have her join us as a managing partner. Her passion for people and her ability to create a space where great work can happen is evident in her track record. Having Frannie’s energy here in Australia is a win for Taboo and the local creative industry. Our next chapter is certainly going to be a fun one.”

Rhodes will join the agency's leadership team alongside Mackinnon and group CEO Andrew Mackinnon, general manager Kate Prowse, and chairman Jonathan Issacs, who recently joined the agency from Clemenger Group, where he was CFO. 

Rhodes said, "When the opportunity arose to be part of Taboo’s growth, I thought, why the hell not? I am thrilled to immerse myself in Melbourne's vibrant creative community. Most importantly, Taboo embodies the exact environment I've been seeking—an edgy, creative vibe that celebrates people, creativity, design, and innovation. I am eager to contribute to Taboo's 23-year success story by continuing to open up pathways for unexpected, culture-led creativity, fostering talent, and building a team of unbound thinkers."

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Top image: Frannie Rhodes