Singapore's advertising scene has undergone a major shake-up
involving three of its most high profile ad men - Ian Batey, Addison
James and Christopher Foo.
Mr Batey, co-founder and shareholder of The Batey Group, is leaving
Singapore at the end of March to live overseas.
He will only be in Singapore one week every three months to check on
local management and advise on strategic issues involving Singapore
Airlines and the Singapore Tourism Board.
Recently, Mr Batey has moved away from the day-to-day running of the
agency, by delegating management responsibility. He has also sold equity
in Batey to WPP.
Meanwhile, Batey MD, Mr James, has left suddenly to become CEO of Lowe
Lintas & Partners replacing Mr Foo, who is pursuing business
opportunities outside of advertising.
Mr James' departure has also sparked a management restructuring at
Batey's Singapore office.
Mr Jon Collins retains his position as chief operating officer of
Batey's overseas operations but becomes chairman, replacing Mr Rick
Scott-Blackhall, now a strategist on SIA. Mr Nick Marrett moves from
deputy MD to COO of the Singapore office.
Rather than appoint a new MD, five senior executives are sharing
management responsibility.
Mr Collins said: "If one of the five does exceptionally well this year
then the person will become chief executive."
