Jarred Cinman and Diane Wilson, who are long-time work partners and co-CEOs of VMLY&R for the past five years, have assumed new roles as CEO of VML South Africa and VML’s Chief Operations Officer, respectively.
This announcement marks a significant milestone as WPP, the world’s largest advertising company, embarks on a major evolution in its client offerings with the global merger of Wunderman Thompson and VMLY&R.
From the first of January 2024, the combined entity, now known simply as VML, stands as the industry’s largest creative powerhouse, making its debut in the South African market with offices in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town. The transition comes with a diverse portfolio of clients, including prominent brands like Vodacom, Standard Bank, BMW, Nestlé, Unilever, and Nando’s, among others.
Cinman, now at the helm of VML South Africa, will be reporting to Ewen Sturgeon, the CEO of VML EMEA, who expressed confidence in Cinman and Wilson’s leadership. Sturgeon commended their client-centric focus, inclusive leadership style, and forward-thinking approach to innovation and technology, underscoring their pivotal role in driving the VML brand forward.
In response to his appointment, Cinman expressed his commitment to making VML the premier agency on the continent, emphasizing the agency’s dedication to delivering top-tier creative work, effective communication, and purposeful experiences. He stressed the importance of integrating the best talent from both legacy businesses, focusing on culture, clients, and impactful work to elevate the organization to new heights.
Wilson echoed this sentiment, highlighting their investment in talent as a priority, with the imminent arrival of Fran Luckin as the new Chief Creative Officer. With Luckin’s wealth of experience and talent, Wilson anticipates VML’s ascent in the creative advertising space.
Tebogo Skwambane, who is now serving as WPP country manager for South Africa, assumes the role of Executive Chairperson, bringing invaluable expertise in organizational design and commercial acumen to the leadership team. Avron Berkman joins as Chief Finance Officer, further strengthening the business’s leadership lineup.
Cinman and Wilson’s tenure at VMLY&R South Africa has been marked by notable achievements, including securing major accounts like Vodacom and earning numerous awards both locally and internationally. Their leadership has propelled the agency to new heights, earning accolades such as silver Effie Awards, Smarties Awards, and Agency of the Year honors.
As VML South Africa embarks on this transformative journey under new leadership, the organization is poised to redefine industry standards and deliver exceptional creative solutions to its clients.