Alex Lee, Hong Kong CEO at Leo Burnett, said the number of people affected was 15, contrary to tips that had placed the number as high as 30. At last count, the agency employs 180 people in Hong Kong.
"Yes, we are letting go a few of our team members, Lee told Campaign Asia-Pacific this morning. "This is due to re-aligning and right-sizing our team as a result of realignment of a client’s business to our office in Shanghai."
The client in question is reportedly Procter & Gamble, according to staff with knowledge of the matter. Lee said he could not comment on this. Leo Burnett's past work for P&G brands in Hong Kong includes Safeguard, Crest and Rejoice.
Lee explained that this is "part and parcel of running an agency, where we have to constantly review our resources due to clients’ ongoing and future needs".
