LOWE MAKES DRAFT MOVE, COLMAN TO DEPART

Lowe Worldwide has announced the next phase of its investment in growth in Australia and New Zealand, extending the application of its Lowe/Draft concept in Australia and New Zealand, and appointing a new management team in Australia.
The changes will see Stephen Pearson, currently chief executive of Lowe and Draft in New Zealand, become chief executive of the Lowe Group in Australia and New Zealand.
Judi Lewis, currently general manager of Draft New Zealand will become chief executive of Draft in Australia and New Zealand.
Chairman of Lowe Oceania Lionel Hunt (pictured) said that Lowe Hunt Sydney Managing Director, Ben Colman would be leaving the agency.
“I would like to thank Mr Colman for his efforts over the past five years particularly his championing of the agency's Brand Explosions concept and
for helping build the agency's digital capability.“
Mr Hunt said that the appointment of Mr Pearson and Ms Lewis would enable them to bring their skills and expertise to Lowe Hunt and Draft in Australia while retaining oversight to the successful New Zealand operation.
Cameron Harland, currently Lowe’s general manager in New Zealand will be appointed to the Lowe Board and become managing director New Zealand.
Matthew Scott will become general manager of Draft New Zealand.
Mr Hunt said there would be significant investment in the direct side of the business. In time Draft would be superceded within the Lowe group with a creatively-focused direct operation owned by Lowe and rolled out around the world from first quarter 2007.
Mr Pearson and Ms Lewis will be based in Sydney, but will divide their time between Australia and New Zealand.
Mr Pearson said that the opportunity to create a truly integrated direct and advertising agency was very exciting.
“Lowe is in the business of ideas, not ads,” he said. “Expect also much greater integration and collaboration between trans-Tasman creative teams.”
“Australasia is already part of Lowe’s global creative renaissance and we have an opportunity to accelerate that and make an even greater contribution to the network.”
He said the changes would bring benefits to clients on both sides of the Tasman.
“Not only will we extend the model of integrating advertising and direct services, but we believe the sharing of creativity between agencies offers the true power of a great network,” he said.
Mr Hunt said he would remain chairman of Lowe Hunt in Australia to support the new executive team in its integration and development plans.