FCB South Africa group executive creative director, Ashley Bacon, has been appointed to the Board of FCB Worldwide bringing to two the number of local executives on the international body. Mike Bosman, FCB South Africa's chairman, took up his Board position three years ago.
Making the announcement in New York, FCB Worldwide CEO, Brendan Ryan, said he welcomed Bacon's appointment for a number of reasons. "Not only is Ashley Bacon the creative caretaker of one of FCB Worldwide's most creative organisations, he possesses an overall presence, maturity and 'savvy' that will add real value to the global operator's business", he commented. Ryan added the appointment had been made to increase the creative presence on the Board.
Locally FCB South Africa CEO, Neil van der Weele, endorsed Ryan's words. "Since joining FCB South Africa as group executive creative director almost seven years ago, Ashley has made a huge difference to our creative product. His ability to develop communication that builds an emotional bond with South African consumers is unmatched. And time and time again his experience and leadership skills have been acknowledged – three years ago he was appointed to the FCB Worldwide Creative Board and in 2000, FCB South Africa was awarded the Fairfax Cone Award in recognition of the fact that its creative product was the most outstanding within the FCB Worldwide network of 200 offices in over 100 countries.
"This latest achievement is a great accolade for Ashley and one that is truly well deserved. His stature and knowledge will add enormous value to the FCB Worldwide Board, and will give FCB South Africa, as well as FCB Africa, an added voice at this important forum," said van der Weele.
