Accenture Song has broken its silence over the news of Initiative’s top brass – Melissa Fein, Sam Geer, and Chris Colter – joining the consultancy to set up a full service media arm.
“There is no doubt that media is a business growth driver and strategic differentiator for our clients,” Accenture Song ANZ President Mark Green said.
“Melissa, Sam, and Chris are strong hires for us, and their addition to our team in Australia reflects our global strategy to deliver future facing media and integrated solutions for our clients.
“Media is a growth area globally for Accenture Song and we are seeing momentum in our end-to-end media offerings in all regions. These appointments serve to extend our footprint into this market that will improve our ability to service the region.”
Accenture added in a statement: “The appointments support Accenture Song’s promise to create impact for clients through the integration of creativity, technology and media, and will significantly enhance and expand the existing media services offered to Song’s clients in ANZ.”
Competitor Adam Ferrier at Thinkerbell joked to Mediaweek earlier today: “I think at some stage soon, the entire industry will be working for Greeny.”
Mediabrands CEO Mark Coad has not spoken to the market, but confirmed the news to staff in an email sent last night at 6:26pm and seen by Mediaweek.
“Suffice to say, Mel, Sam, and Colts are still very much part of Initiative’s team and will be working at their usual high-octane and professional pace over the next few weeks/months. They have been very respectful and will give the agency and its clients their time and expertise to ensure a smooth transition,” he wrote.
In an official statement released this morning, a Mediabrands spokesperson said: “While we respect that there are many questions to be asked and answered, no further comment will be made at this time. Further details will be provided in due course.
“At this early stage, we acknowledge the tremendous contribution that Melissa, Sam, and Chris have made to Initiative and the wider IPG Mediabrands company.”