Anthony Gregorio is departing from his role as CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi Australia after five years.
Appointed to take over Gregorio’s role is the managing director of Publicis’ bespoke Lexus agency Team One, Patrick Rowe. He will begin in the new role on February 1.
In addition to being CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi Australia, Rowe will continue to lead Team One.
Gregorio said: “I’m incredibly proud of the team I have worked with, the clients we have partnered with and the amazing work that has built brands and careers. This made my decision to leave tougher than I expected, knowing that I will be leaving a great team of people and clients behind. The ‘Nothing is Impossible’ spirit embedded within my team has got us through a period of uncertainty and immense change over the last few years.
“We have achieved greatness together, which was recognised in the 2022 World Creative Rankings when we were named the best agency in Asia Pacific and ranked seventh in the world.
“I have given everything to this role over the last five years and the time is right for me to take some time out and consider my next adventure. I know the agency is in great shape to take on future opportunities and challenges under the exceedingly capable hands of Pat, someone I have worked alongside and admire enormously,” Gregorio added.
Patrick Rowe
Michael Rebelo, Publicis Groupe ANZ CEO, said: “I deeply respect, support and understand Ant’s decision to take some time out and consider his next chapter. Over the past five years, his leadership has helped shape the agency’s distinctive culture, our client partnerships and creative product, and we wish him the very best for what lies ahead.
“As Pat Rowe steps into the CEO role, we are confident that he is best placed to progress the agency to its next stage of growth, delivering marketing transformation solutions to our clients. In promoting from within, we have tapped a highly credentialed leader who has been with the Publicis network for over 20 years. Leading creative agencies is in Pat’s DNA – more recently focused on effectively applying creativity in CX, data and technology,” he added.
Rowe was the general manager of Leo Burnett Melbourne from 2003 to 2018 and helped it become one of Australia’s top creative agencies.
Rowe said: “It is a huge privilege to lead Saatchi & Saatchi – one of the most famous creative brands in Australia and a company bursting with some of the most talented people I know.
“I’m looking forward to continuing the legacy Ant has created at the agency, by producing great work that builds brands and unlocks growth both for our clients and our people. And to make sure we have fun doing it.”
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Top image: Anthony Gregorio