Creative innovation studio R/GA Australia’s Public Practice division has recently expanded its team with strategic senior hires in Canberra, signalling a shift in traditional models of engagement within the public sector.
Four new senior appointments have been made: Senior product strategist Skye Kibbey from Deloitte Digital, technology director Sam Brunno from Dentsu Merkle, design ops director Joe McKinley from Deloitte Digital, and group account director Nick Trembath, who transitions from Liquid Interactive.
Kibbey leverages over 20 years of experience, enhancing public sector systems for clients like Services Australia and Australian National University. Brunno blends creativity with hands-on tech problem-solving for clients including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Footlocker.
McKinley excels in various design aspects, working with clients such as the Department of Defence and Jetstar. While Trembath ensures strategic collaboration, particularly with public and mission-oriented organisations like the Department of Health and National Archives of Australia.
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The move comes as a response to the evolving landscape of the public sector, which increasingly demands specialist capabilities, transparency, and a focus on empowering internal teams.
Over the previous year, R/GA’s Public Practice has attained success by establishing the Australian Federal Government as its inaugural client and developing the brand and encounter for the Museum of Chinese in Australia.
Furthermore, it launched the digital platform for the Victorian Department of Education, partnered with Indigenous-owned social enterprise We Are Warrior to coordinate The City of Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks and Calling Country events, and prominently featured at The Purpose Conference.
Executive director Tish Karunarathna, commented on the approach of R/GA’s Public Practice: “R/GA’s Public Practice is reshaping public sector engagement by turning services into experiences, campaigns into movements, and bureaucracies into brands,” said Karunarathna.
“In recent months, we’ve cultivated a seasoned senior team, merging extensive expertise from the public and mission driven sectors with innovative thinking from diverse industries, to drive fresh and creative approaches.”
Victoria Curro, managing director of R/GA Australia, added, “We’re committed to shaping a more human future. Our evolved offering bridges the gap between public policy and citizen engagement, responding to emerging consumer attitudes. Our exciting projects with Commonwealth, State, and public sector organisations truly embody this commitment.”
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Top Image: R/GA Australia Public Practice Team