Plus: Rebecca Brody, Nick Connellan, Sarah James, Megan Davey, and Rupert Price.
"With their data insights, media strategy and a team who know us and our story, we will continue to grow."
The pitch was backed by the agency's data and analytics division, GroupM's data technology capability, and WPP Open.
At Mindshare, Pickering was managing partner on the NAB account for almost five years.
Mediaweek looks back on May's big moves - and there's plenty of them.
Dentsu has made 50 roles redundant as it restructures to a "new and simplified model to create meaningful growth for clients."
According to multiple industry sources, local pitch meetings began across the past week.
Specsavers has worked with Mediabrands' Initiative in Australia since 2016 and with GroupM's EssenceMediacom in New Zealand since 2010.
This is a bespoke media offering powered by GroupM and WPP.
"Out-of-home can start to demand more spending from advertisers, rather than just the 4% or 5% we're currently seeing today."
AKQA will become the lead brand in four markets, including Australia. Mediaweek understands that whiteGREY CEO Lee Simpson will leave the business.
David Jones launched its stand alone retail media department, David Jones Amplify, in August last year.
Villella has started in the role, based in Sydney and reporting to Candice Veasey.
Mediaweek asked media buyers about Hubbl's biggest selling points and how it changes the landscape.