Omnicom Media Group (OMG) has appointed Nikki Grafton as the CEO of OMG New Zealand, marking the first time the company’s operations in the country will function under independent executive oversight rather than being part of a combined Australia-New Zealand leadership structure.
In her new role, Grafton will lead the ongoing expansion and evolution of OMG’s business model in New Zealand, ensuring that its agencies—OMD, PHD, and Hearts & Science—have the necessary talent, tools, and technology to drive brand growth in an increasingly dynamic market.
She will be supported by Nigel Douglas, CEO of OMD New Zealand, and Jane Stanley, CEO of Hearts & Science ANZ while reporting directly to OMG APAC CEO Tony Harradine. Her appointment takes effect immediately.
Having spent two decades at PHD New Zealand, Grafton played a crucial role in building the agency’s reputation for fostering strong client relationships, driving innovation, and delivering measurable brand growth.
As part of the leadership transition, Abby Parkin, currently the managing director of PHD New Zealand, will step into the role of CEO, effective March 1. She has been recognized for spearheading market-leading communication strategies and talent development at PHD. Working closely with the leadership team, she has also contributed to the evolution of PHD’s products and services to align with the industry’s shifting demands. In her new role, Parkin aims to ensure that PHD New Zealand continues delivering innovative and future-focused solutions to drive results for both clients and the business.
Reflecting on her appointment, Grafton expressed enthusiasm about the future of OMG in New Zealand. She highlighted the company’s strong culture of innovation and its commitment to delivering exceptional work for clients. She also emphasized her eagerness to collaborate with teams to drive innovation, strengthen partnerships, and create a meaningful impact in the market.
Meanwhile, Harradine underscored the significance of New Zealand as a key growth market for OMG in the Asia-Pacific region. He described Grafton as a determined leader with a deep understanding of consumer behavior and the ability to translate client goals into tangible outcomes. He also noted that her strong client relationships reinforce confidence in OMG’s Agency as a Platform model and its talent, positioning her as a crucial figure in strengthening OMG’s competitive edge in New Zealand.
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