JWT interna-tional president Michael Maedel has confirmed that he will be devoting considerably more of his time to Asia, but denied that he would move permanently to the region.
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"It is a hugely exaggerated rumour," said Maedel. "I will spend more time in Asia. There are large amounts of opportunities we are looking at in terms of organic growth and acquisitions."
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Maedel added that JWT was looking to acquire "expertise and service offerings in the non-traditional areas", pointing to the growth of JWT's below-the-line arm, RMG Connect. He also confirmed the appointment of industry veteran Alan Fairnington as new CEO of Batey Singapore (Media Online, 21 June). Fairnington, who succeeds incumbent CEO Robert Kay, has a long association with JWT, having served as regional chief in the '90s.
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"(He) is experienced in the market, in building agencies, nurturing talent and has a strong entrepreneurial streak," said Maedel of Fairnington, who has spent recent years involved in his own ventures. Kay earlier revealed to Media that he would be leaving Batey to return to the UK, after assuming the CEO role in early 2005. As Batey is now part of the JWT network, Fairnington will report directly to Maedel.
