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FutureBrand looks to the future with new senior team
After a year of operationally running FutureBrand as Chief Operating Officer, Patrick Smith takes the role of Chief Executive Officer Worldwide. This move follows the announcement at the end of 2009 that Chris Nurko will return to the FutureBrand fold as Chairman Worldwide. The move is a clear indication that FutureBrand is readying itself to deal with growing demand from brands who realise that to survive, they need to innovate.
Smith said “I am naturally delighted to get the ultimate role of global leader. This is a very exciting time for us as after a year of overall reduced activity followed by a dramatic increase in brand innovation activity at the end of 2009. Clients seem to be breaking free of a year of conservatism with the realisation that to be competitive they have to innovate around their product and service offerings. This new market dynamic very much plays to our strengths as, with our track record, breadth of both consumer and corporate brand skills as well the ability to define and deliver great brand experiences, we are tremendously well placed.”
Since joining the agency in 2005, Smith has been instrumental in building FutureBrand’s European offering as Chief Executive Europe. During 2009 Smith has, in the role of President and Chief Operating Officer Worldwide, successfully led the agency through very harsh business conditions with a steady hand. Patrick began his career in advertising, working for Reeves Robertshaw Needham and Grey on various accounts, including Nike, SmithKline Beecham, Emirates Airlines and United Biscuits. From then on he was hooked on building brands. Prior to joining FutureBrand, he was CEO Europe for Brand Union.
Harris Diamond, Chief Executive Officer of the Constituency Management Group, commented “I am certain that Patrick’s vision for the business and strength of leadership will continue to drive FutureBrand toward a preeminent position in the Brand Consultancy sector. His commitment to excellence, energy and drive to succeed means he is well suited for this role.”
Nurko will be joining in the Spring 2010, bringing strong credentials to the senior team. After leaving FutureBrand in 2006, Nurko had a successful stint at global advertising digital and brand specialist, SapientNitro, where he played a major role in helping to build the business globally, culminating in its recent sale for $65M US to global digital consultancy Sapient in June 2009. Nurko will be immersed in all aspects of FutureBrand: the shape and articulation of the offer, product innovation as well as the development and growth of key clients. In his previous roles Nurko has created, directed and launched over 50 new-to-market brands, products, services and companies working with famous brands including Kraft Foods, Bacardi, British Airways, GlaxoSmithKline, Hilton, Unilever, General Mills, Sainsburys, Marks & Spencer, Nokia and Wizz Air.
FutureBrand (www.futurebrand.com), part of the Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. (NYSE: IPG – News), is a leading brand consultancy within IPG that commands a global presence spanning 25 major cities around the world. Partnering with the world’s leading companies, FutureBrand helps its clients to develop profitable brands both today and into the future. Offering a full range of services from consumer branding and corporate identity, to brand identity, brand management and beyond, FutureBrand works with clients to measure and increase brand value, define breakthrough brand strategies and create powerful brand experiences. Clients include ArcelorMittal, P&G, Microsoft, Dubai World, Intel, Barclays Premier, Nokia, Nestle, MasterCard, UPS, and Unilever.
