Copenhagen - Executive Creative Director of Saatchi &
Saatchi Copenhagen, Jason Mendes has been promoted to the role of Regional ECD
of the Nordics. He will work alongside current Nordic MD, Jonas Bjorlin across
the region. Mendes will be directly responsible for the creative output of the
Copenhagen and Stockholm offices, working in close collaboration with Saatchi &
Saatchi agencies in Finland and Norway.
His new role will see him take the creative
lead on key network clients in the region including Toyota, Procter & Gamble
and Novartis. He will also be responsible for global client Polaroid Sunglasses
as well working closely with the Creative Directors in the region on local
clients.
Justin Billingsley, COO of
Saatchi & Saatchi EMEA said: “This move is about aligning ourselves more closely
with the needs and structures of our clients. Having a creative lead across
the Nordics will simply enhance and strengthen our collaboration, bringing the
agencies tighter together, and ultimately, strengthen our creative output for
clients. Our recent global win for Polaroid Sunglasses and then a joint effort between
our Swedish and Danish offices to develop the creative work, is a great example
of this approach in action.”
Jason Mendes said: “People tend to
pool the Nordics into one but there are strong cultural differences between the
countries. Something I inherently understand from growing up in the Caribbean,
with social rivalries between the islands. Also, living and working in the
United Kingdom, with their complex social structure and working across
Australia and New Zealand has given me a unique appreciation for cultural
distinction. Each office in the Nordic region is 100% populated by locals to
bring their respective nuances to life. However, if there’s one thing I’ve
learnt, a great idea doesn’t discriminate.”
John Pallant, Regional Creative Director EMEA
said: “In just a short space of time in our Danish office, Jason has impressed
all - colleagues and clients alike – with his boundless, infectious enthusiasm
and his 'can do' spirit. Some people
make things happen, and he is one, and we want him to do that right across the
region now.”
Mendes re-joined Saatchi & Saatchi in Jan 2013 after a five-year
period, where he was at Channel 4 & Ogilvy in London. His accolades include
numerous Cannes Lions, Campaign Big Awards, London International Awards,
British Television Awards, One Show and D&AD. Saatchi & Saatchi Denmark rose from the
position of 21st creative agency in Denmark to 6th in
Mendes’ first year as ECD.
Mendes concludes: “I’m totally aligned with
Jonas and his vision for the region. We clicked immediately. I’m truly excited
by the partnership and I’m flattered I’ve been given this golden opportunity to
work with an extended portfolio of great clients.”