UM Australia taps Jessica Lauria to lead Sydney office

UM Australia has appointed Jessica Lauria as Managing Director of UM Sydney, in a strategic hire aimed at accelerating the agency’s next phase of growth and deepening client partnerships.

Lauria will step into the role with a remit to lead UM Sydney’s vision, build a high-performing culture and drive strategic growth for clients.

Her appointment reflects what the agency described as a shift away from traditional agency leadership pathways, bringing a client-centric perspective into the business.

Lauria's past experiences

Lauria brings 25 years of experience across senior global brand marketing and leadership roles.

Her background includes leading brand strategy, innovation and growth agendas across markets, with experience building and scaling consumer brands.

Most recently, she served as CMO of OoMee and previously as Head of Brand Marketing at Gopuff, where she led global brand strategy, advertising, media, social and innovation.

Earlier in her career, Lauria held leadership roles at S’well, Hint and Chobani. She began her career in advertising at BBDO, Berlin Cameron, and Anomaly, working on brands including Coca-Cola, Sephora, and Procter & Gamble.

Stevie Douglas-Neal on the appointment

Stevie Douglas-Neal, CEO of UM Australia, said Lauria’s appointment was a deliberate move to bring a fresh perspective into the agency.

“With extensive client-side experience and international kudos, Jess brings first-hand insight into the pressures marketers are navigating in 2026, and the role UM can play as true business partners.”

Douglas-Neal said UM’s ambition is to better understand clients and drive business impact.

“Jess is a powerful reflection of that, and we’re excited about the energy and leadership she will bring to UM Sydney.”

Jessica Lauria on joining UM Sydney

Lauria said UM’s ambition is built around understanding client needs and growth pressures.

“I've always believed media is one of the most powerful levers a business has, not just for reach, but for brand-building, culture-shaping and creating impact at scale. Right now, we're in one of the most dynamic moments the industry has ever seen.

“I’m excited to join UM Sydney to help shape the strategy and bring my experience to the table to ensure creativity and media are truly connected to drive meaningful growth for our clients,” she concluded.

A broader leadership investment

Douglas-Neal said Lauria’s appointment also reflects UM’s broader investment in strengthening leadership and improving the client experience.

“Jess’s appointment is a huge part in UM’s commitment to invest in our brand, and she will not only build momentum in UM Sydney to support our existing clients and team, but she will also help us transform and grow at pace.

“Our team deserve it, our clients deserve it, and we’re excited for the future,” Douglas-Neal concluded.

Lauria’s appointment is effective May 18.

Top Image: Jessica Lauria

Keep on top of the most important media, marketing, and agency news each day with the Mediaweek Morning Report – delivered for free every morning to your inbox.