One Plus One Group appoints ad industry legend Mike Hutcheson as non-executive chairman

Corporate communications and stakeholder engagement firm, One Plus One Group, today announced the appointment of Mike Hutcheson to the newly created role of non-executive chairman.

Kelly Bennett, One Plus One founder and managing director, said the introduction of Mike Hutcheson’s involvement was a real coup for the company: “Mike is widely acknowledged as one of the smartest and most strategic thinkers in New Zealand business. His wisdom and experience, honed over many decades building hugely successful companies and brands, will be a real asset for us. He’s gregarious, imminently likeable and we get along well, so it was a natural fit.”

Hutcheson co-founded advertising agencies Colenso BBDO and Hutcheson Knowles Marinkovich (HKM), and was also managing director of Saatchi & Saatchi. In 2003, he set up an innovation and start-up incubator called the Lighthouse Ideas Company, and in 2008 was involved in a management buyout of Image Centre Group, where he is currently a director.

He has published four books, is a regular television guest and presenter, and in 2012 was named Business Columnist of the Year in the magazine publishers awards. In addition, he is a director of Cooks Global Foods Ltd (NZX: CGF).

Says Hutcheson: “I’m delighted to be able to work with Kelly and the One Plus One team, who have carved out a special position in the corporate communications space, and are operating at the top of their game.

“They’re professional, focused and responsive. They listen more than talk, and they’re well networked. Plus they’re smart, pragmatic, down-to-earth and efficient. You can’t get a better formula for success.”