Leo Australia has appointed Hilary Badger as executive creative director in Melbourne, alongside the promotions of group creative directors Tommy Cehak and Tim Woolford to executive creative directors in Sydney.
Badger joins the Publicis Groupe agency from Ogilvy in Melbourne, bringing more than 20 years of experience to the role. She has worked with globally recognised brands across financial services, FMCG, automotive, retail, government and tourism sectors.
She is an AWARD jury chair and lecturer, with work recognised at the highest level at Cannes, AWARD, Spikes and OneAsia; her work also took home the 2024 Grand APAC Effie.
Hilary Badger
In addition to her industry accomplishments, Badger has a best-selling book series, Zac Power, translated into over ten languages and set to be adapted into an animated feature film in 2026.
Badger of her new role: “With new business wins, new energy, even a new name – what an exciting time to join Clare Pickens, Andy Fergusson and the team. Creating transformative work for Australia’s biggest brands is what drives me. And to do so at Leo where diversity and humanity are recognised as essential to creativity – I’ve found the right home.
“With the seamless integration of agencies in Publicis Groupe elevating Leo’s own creative and strategic prowess, there’s a clear path forward to achieving the biggest, bravest and most effective creative work with the team at Leo.”
Since joining in 2023, Cehak and Woolford have crafted award-winning work for Diageo, Amazon, and DNSW, with projects like Bundaberg Rum’s “Wedding that Fans Built” and Johnnie Walker’s “In Her Boots” gaining international recognition at Cannes, Spikes, One Show, AWARD and D&AD.
Tommy Cehak and Tim Woolford
As newly appointed executive creative directors, Cehak and Woolford will continue to push creative boundaries and expand their impact across AAMI, GIO and Suncorp Insurance following the recent consolidation of the Suncorp portfolio.
Andy Fergusson, chief creative officer at Leo Australia, added: “I’m very excited that Hilary is joining the team. I’ve been a big fan of her work for a while now. She has a proven track record as a creative leader and is respected throughout the industry. She is the right person to build on the momentum in our Melbourne office; we are lucky to have her.
“I also couldn’t be happier to announce Tim and Tommy’s promotion. Since joining Leo, they have made a huge impact on the work, the people, and the culture. They have been instrumental in strengthening the agency’s position, and I am excited to see them grow into their new roles moving forward.”
Top image: Hilary Badger, Tommy Cehak and Tim Woolford