Matt Seddon to join as CEO of Saatchis in India

Saatchi & Saatchi say this is “the first step in a major renewal of the agency’s India office”. Seddon will replace Kamal Basu, who has been with the agency since 2001. He will take on the new role from 1 December.

Commenting on the appointment, Chris Foster, chairman and chief executive officer, Saatchi & Saatchi Asia-Pacific, acknowledged that the agency had some work to do in India. “Saatchi & Saatchi India should be recognised worldwide for its work but the agency is yet to realise its potential," he said. "India is a thriving, dynamic economy and we’re determined to make a difference in this market.”

Basu said he was leaving the agency on a positive note. “The last ten years with Saatchi & Saatchi has been fantastic but I felt it’s time to take on something new. I am in the process of finalising my next move and I will be working closely with Matt to ensure a smooth transition.”

Seddon says he is excited to be taking on the challenge at Saatchi & Saatchi India, noting that it had an an impressive client roster, a strong brand and an "inspirational dream" to create big ideas. “The world-famous Saatchi & Saatchi spirit – nothing is impossible - can be a true differentiator for us in India," he said. "My passion is to lead the number one agency in the country, and (make it) a magnet for talent, and the agency that every client wants to work with.”

Over the last 15 years, Seddon has led the Saatchi & Saatchi offices in Vietnam, Malaysia and the Philippines to win numerous local and international awards for creative work. He was born in the UK but grew up in Singapore, and has spent his working life in the Asia-Pacific region.

As reported earlier, Mio Chongson has taken over leadership of Ace Saatchi & Saatchi in Manila.