ZenithOptimedia snares BMF digital planning director Aaron Michie for chief innovation role
In the first major change since Ian Perrin took over as CEO, ZenithOptimedia has appointed BMF digital planning director Aaron Michie to the role of chief innovation officer – effective March 12.
The role is designed to generate broader and more innovative strategic solutions for ZenithOptimedia clients, specifically focused in the technology space.
Michie will work closely with COO Andrew Sherman and CSO Nicole Millward and take a national role across the Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane offices.
In addition to his 15+ years industry experience in roles such as managing partner at Tribal DDB in Sydney and creative director/head of concept at Elephant Seven in Barcelona and Hamburg, Michie also has a scientific background holding degrees in microbiology and biochemistry.
Says Perrin: “As a business we want to be at the forefront of technology, and rather than watching and listening to others, genuinely leading the way. This will help us to provide the most innovative and unique solutions for our clients and deliver genuine ROI. It’s a bold ambition and we needed the very best talent in the technology field, regardless of background, to make it happen. After an exhaustive search Aaron stood head and shoulders above anyone else, and we are thrilled to bring him to ZenithOptimedia. We are also determined to build better really strong relationships with the creative agencies we work with, and Aaron will help to drive this.”
Says Michie: “Having spent most of my career in digital and creative agencies, I have always been interested in working at a media agency and getting closer to where consumers interact with brands. It was important for me to find the right one and with ZenithOptimedia and their new leadership and vision, I found it. Media agencies seem by and large the same in terms of their output and I am looking forward to working with Ian, Andrew and Nicole in bringing media, creative and technology closer together to produce work that is fundamentally new and different.”