DDB Worldwide promotes Susie Walker to global chief creative operations officer

DDB Worldwide has promoted creative chief of staff Susie Walker to global chief creative operations officer, reporting to president and global chief creative officer Chaka Sobhani.

Walker's appointment is Sobhani's first since joining the creative network in May.

In the newly created role, Walker will work alongside Sobhani in "cementing DDB's reputation as the number one creative agency network globally".

She will oversee creative operations and performance for clients' businesses, liaising with agency leaders across the network on prospective new business and organic growth.

Walker will also work with DDB's global creatives on DE&I initiatives, "built specifically for the creative community from the most junior level up, to help make DDB a place where the best creative talent wants to build their careers".

Walker joined the agency in her previous chief of staff post in 2022. Since then, she has helped foster consistent creative work across all global regions that DDB operates. She has also headed up DDB's creative council process, Bullseye.

Sobhani said: "In the six weeks I've been here, I've quickly realised Susie is one of the best and most talented people I've met. She's integral to the DDB family and connecting this genuinely incredible creative community.

"She cares deeply about creativity and people, and getting to the best ideas for everyone and from everywhere, and helping them get out into the world. She's just one of those people who just makes you and the work better. And she's also a top lass to boot."

Before joining DDB, Walker spend a decade at Cannes Lions, as vice-president of awards and insight.

Walker added: "At DDB, I get to work with some of the best talent and ideas the industry has to offer. The culture is genuinely driven by creativity and celebrates individuality alongside a real sense of togetherness and connectivity.

"To be a part of that is beyond thrilling, and I can't wait to work with Chaka and our brilliant creative leaders and community across the world to help get to more work that matters for all the right reasons."