OMD NZ names Blair Alexander as new CEO

Omnicom Media (OM) agency OMD has appointed Blair Alexander as CEO of New Zealand, effective 2 March, to lead operations and develop future-ready capabilities that will drive the next chapter of the agency’s growth. He will report to Nikki Grafton, CEO of OM New Zealand.

Alexander, an influential leader in New Zealand’s agency landscape, has over 20 years of experience across client leadership, agency transformation, and media strategy. Known for his collaborative, client-first approach and his ability to tackle complex business challenges, Alexander has earned a reputation for driving business outcomes through strategic insight, technology, and integrated communications.

Alexander previously served as CEO of the three New Zealand media brands under IPG ownership; FCB Media, UM and Initiative, guiding the teams through significant growth and acceleration. Under his leadership, the group achieved record revenue and secured major account wins, including Coca-Cola, Nestlé, Chorus, the New Zealand Electoral Commission, and One NZ. In 2023, Alexander spearheaded the launch of Initiative in New Zealand, a bold move designed to reinvigorate the market. Within months of launch, the agency secured the ASB account, speaking to his capable leadership and business acumen.

During Alexander’s tenure, FCB Media became the most awarded media agency in New Zealand, winning more than 50 Gold Beacons, including four Best in Show honours and a global WARC Grand Prix for Best Use of Data.

Says Nikki Grafton, CEO, OM New Zealand: “Securing a leader of Blair’s calibre, with his reputation for trusted client relationships and transformational leadership, was a priority for us. Blair is the ideal choice to bring the full strength of Omnicom’s global capabilities to our OMD clients and partners. His ability to harness technology, global intellectual property, and deep strategic insight – and apply them in ways that is relevant to the New Zealand market – will create significant value for our clients. He is also known for building skilled, loyal teams with a deep understanding of clients’ businesses, which consistently delivers strong commercial outcomes.”

Says Alexander: “OMD has been a fierce competitor in New Zealand for several years, with a great long-term track record and exceptional talent. The evolved structure of the team, powered by the collective resources of Omnicom Media, particularly in the AI and tech space, were compelling reasons to lead this team. The ability to unleash this combined capability and create what’s next for our clients has huge potential. Bring it on!”

An announcement on Alexander’s replacement at McCann as the FCB Media brand transitions is imminent.

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