After much speculation, Nick Simons has been officially named as managing director at Droga5's London office, only with a rather falling caveat; that he will only be serving in the interim, whilst another CEO is scouted and vetted, indeed, Simons himself will even reportedly be involved in the process. The British-born Simons moves to London from D5's New York office, where he served as group account director on accounts for American Express, Hennessy, and many others. He previously served in the same role at M&C Saatchi in London, so his new appointment could almost be seen as a homecoming.
Recent Droga5 New York ad for Chobani yogurt
Droga5's London office opened 18 months ago and has thus far failed to make much of an impact in an overcrowded market. In fact, so far they have only announced one recent London business win in the shape of cider brand Bulmers. The statement accompanying the announcement said the news arrives “During a series of strategic growth moves as the office is evaluating ways to bolster its London team,” and that Simons will be “Overseeing operations of all accounts while also helping London expand its portfolio.” It also states that Simons will “Aid in the scouting and vetting process of finding a new CEO for London.” Droga5 creative chairman David Droga said Simons “Has proven to be an energetic force, both winning and leading business out of the New York office.” He added they are “Looking forward to him bringing this Droga5 spirit to London,” as they strengthen their Global offerings.
Photo: David Droga
Simons will be “Overseeing operations of all accounts while also helping London expand its portfolio,” but will also “Aid in the scouting and vetting process of finding a new CEO for London.”
It may seem like an odd move to essentially dangle Simons the job only to snatch it away, but the company really needs to find the right replacement for the European offices former chief executive, Kevin Dundas, who founded the London office and left the company last month. Speaking at the time of Dundas' departure, Droga said he wants to “Build the most influential creative agency in the world,” and for the London office to “Inspire and validate” their mission. He added that him and Dundas had a “Long work history and friendship,” and admitted he had a difficult job setting up a US agency in the UK, but said “In this crucial and tough market,” they need to operate in a different way.
Photo: Kevin Dundas former European CEO
Droga5's “Kittens” ad for Coca-Cola featuring pop star Taylor Swift
Despite the comparative failure of the European office, Droga5's New York office continues to thrive as one of the trendiest and “Sexiest” agencies in the world. A recent ad for coca-cola, featuring pop star of the moment Taylor Swift playing with kittens was a major success for the agency, and the agency also recently formed a new investment/partnership with the Hollywood talent agency WME.
Benjamin Hiorns is a freelance writer and musician from Kidderminster in the UK who will freely admit that the new Taylor Swift song isn't the worst song in the world.
