NEW YORK FESTIVALS APPOINTS REP FOR AUSTRALIA AND NZ

June Laffey has been appointed the official and exclusive marketing representative for the International Awards Group (IAG) and its four advertising brands, The New York Festivals, The Global Awards, Midas Awards and AME Awards. Based in Sydney as a freelance writer, she has more than 20 years experience in the advertising industry. Says Laffey: "Currently the International Awards Group is the 3rd largest awards company in the world, with 19,200 entries in 2006 alone. The 2007 New York Festivals International Advertising Competition awards gala has been moved to the second week in June. Right between Clio and Cannes! The deadline to enter the 2007 New York Festivals Advertising Competition is February 19. To enter online or download entry forms, visit newyorkfestivals.com.
Jimmy Smyth (pictured) has assumed the role of chief executive officer of IAG, and with a real understanding and passion for advertising and programming, he is set to elevate the stature and value of winning any of the IAG competitions, says Michael Demetriades, IAG's executive director: “Jimmy was the person that resurrected the Clio Awards in 1992 after the competition's fall from grace in 1991 and enabled advertising people from all over the world to once again proudly display that trophy in their offices. Without Jimmy, Clio would not exist today. Well, he is back from an early retirement and we are delighted to have him with us. Anyone that knows Jimmy from his days as an editor or at Clio knows he is a quality guy with a deep respect for creativity and advertising and will not be surprised when he makes our competitions the most respected in the world. If you have any doubts, just ask Neil French.
"Next, Jimmy will improve the quality of the jury members and the jury selection process. You will also see a marked improvement in the marketing and showcasing of the award winning work and its creators, because it's not just about winning, it's about telling the world who has won,” said Demetriades.
For further information about any of these competitions in Australia or New Zealand, June Laffey can be contacted on 0410 246 519 or email jlaffey@internationalawardsgroup.com.