Y&R Thai office 'pillar' Dolchai quits

Dolchai, 47, will be setting up his own business, a brand and image consultancy called Brandscape, with an initial investment of one million baht (about US$25,000). "After 20 years in the advertising industry, I have no desire to handle the entire range of activities and headaches that come with the territory of a full-service agency," he said. That he is leaving the agency without any hard feelings is evident from the fact his former employer has come forward as his first client. "I will still be working with my ex-employer and (Y&R CEO Sohn Chongsrichan) by providing brand consultancy services to Y&R's key clients," explained Dolchai. Brandscape also lists Thanachart Bank and Bangkok Showcase as clients. Sorn Chongsrichan, currently managing director of the office, will take Dolchai's place. He joined Y&R in February this year to succeed Malatip Khunwattana, who also left to start her own business. Having worked with agencies for over two decades, Dolchai was the first Thai appointed to a top position at the agency, although most of his experience was gained in the creative department. His most renowned work at Y&R was on Samsung, helping it crack Japanese dominance of the Thai market. "The industry in Thailand is rapidly becoming brand-centric rather than advertising-centric and the agencies will have to formulate their creative strategies around this concept to remain competitive and gain a greater share of the consumers mind," said Dolchai.