In a strategic manoeuvre reflecting the evolving landscape under new leadership, M&C Saatchi Group has orchestrated a series of executive shifts, culminating in Jo Bacon’s elevation to UK group chief executive, succeeding Marcus Peffers who assumes the role of UK group chair from Richard Thompson.
Bacon’s ascent to UK group chief executive marks a rapid progression from her recent appointment as ad agency chief executive in February, filling the void left by Camilla Kemp. Meanwhile, Thompson, who has served as UK group chair since 2021, assumes a broader mantle as global chair overseeing the agency’s specialised divisions encompassing M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment, PR, and talent. Additionally, he steps into the global head of corporate development role, focusing on identifying strategic opportunities for mergers and acquisitions.
Peffers, previously at the helm as UK group CEO since September, brings a wealth of experience in enhancing the agency’s UK operations, acclaimed for his adept client management and commercial acumen, making him the ideal steward for the agency group’s transformative phase.
The reshuffle coincides with the recent appointment of Zaid Al-Qassab as chief executive, marking a pivotal juncture for M&C Saatchi Group. Al-Qassab, formerly of Channel 4 as chief marketing officer, joins the agency alongside Simon Fuller, the newly appointed chief financial officer.
Looking ahead, M&C Saatchi Group announces its pursuit to appoint a chief marketing and growth strategy officer, tasked with refining brand strategy while maintaining a regional focus on new-business development. This strategic move underscores the agency’s commitment to bolstering its global marketing and communications endeavours under new leadership.
Further bolstering its executive ranks, Nadja Bellan-White, appointed earlier this year as chief executive of SS&K M&C Saatchi, assumes a pivotal role within the group’s leadership team, representing SS&K and serving as general counsel. Concurrently, Victoria Clarke returns as company secretary following a brief hiatus.
These developments follow a comprehensive restructuring of M&C Saatchi Group’s UK operations last autumn, consolidating five subsidiaries—including its flagship London ad agency and sport and entertainment business—into a unified “super group.”
In reflecting on these changes, Al-Qassab articulated a vision for the future, emphasising growth, innovation, and creativity as foundational pillars of the agency’s trajectory. “These leadership changes underscore our dedication to advancing our vision,” remarked Al-Qassab. “With Richard, Marcus, Jo, Bruce, Nadja, Victoria, and Simon at the helm, we are poised to create unparalleled value for our clients, employees, and shareholders.”
Formally assuming leadership on May 13th, Al-Qassab succeeded interim CEO Zillah Byng-Thorne, who had steered the agency following the departure of veteran Moray MacLennan in July of last year.
