New Y&R global chief Hamish McLennan has admitted concern over senior talent turbulence in the wake of Chris Jaques' decision to leave, and is hoping that a renewed focus on creativity will attract and retain talent at the network.
Speaking to Media in Singapore, where McLennan addressed regional executives for the first time since being elevated to the global role, the former Y&R Australia head added that the global entity must become more united behind strong creative if it is to regain its lustre.
Speaking to Media in Singapore, where McLennan addressed regional executives for the first time since being elevated to the global role, the former Y&R Australia head added that the global entity must become more united behind strong creative if it is to regain its lustre.
"Yes there is a concern," said McLennan of reports of senior talent turbulence in the wake of Jaques' announcement. "But I think most people these days will see who replaces Chris and how we manage the transition."
His comments come amid rumblings from within Y&R that their new global chief is less concerned with great work than with great profits. While McLennan will argue that the two are hardly exclusive, he admits to being "pragmatic", but describes himself as "a supporter of the creative process".
"He's a business-minded creative supporter with a bit more emphasis on the business," said a source. "But he's very ambitious and will definitely make stuff happen."
McLennan added that several candidates from both within and outside the Y&R network were being considered for the role, but must bring certain attributes to the position. "Somebody who really values the creative product, has a deep appreciation for interactive and new media, is hardworking and honest, and rolls their sleeves up and gets things done," he said.
McLennan's elevation to the top job sparked some surprise in the agency world, and much of the ensuing coverage has focused on his strong relationship with WPP chief Sir Martin Sorrell. A proven entrepreneur who quadrupled Y&R's Australasian revenue in four years, McLennan says he is particularly keen on "empowering" local managers, exporting the model adopted in Asia-Pacific.
