Ogilvy Melbourne appoints Ant Simmons as ECD

A shift in leadership has occurred at Ogilvy Melbourne, with Ant Simmons stepping into the role of Executive Creative Director. This transition follows Hilary Badger's departure to join Leo Australia, opening a new chapter for the agency's creative direction.  

Simmons, who initially joined Ogilvy in late 2023 as Group Creative Director, has quickly demonstrated his creative prowess and leadership potential. Ogilvy Melbourne's Managing Director, Gavin MacMillan, highlighted Simmons' aptitude for both creative innovation and meticulous craftsmanship, citing these qualities as key factors in his promotion.  

"Ant's creative vision, combined with his dedication to the art of craft, has been a significant asset to our creative output," MacMillan remarked. "His inherent leadership qualities make him a natural fit to guide our Melbourne team."  

The agency also acknowledged the contributions of Hilary Badger, who played a vital role in cultivating creative talent during her tenure. "We deeply appreciate Hilary's dedication to nurturing our creative environment," MacMillan stated. "We respect her decision to pursue new opportunities and wish her well in her future endeavors."

Simmons expressed enthusiasm for his new responsibilities, emphasizing the collaborative spirit and creative ambition within Ogilvy Melbourne. "The team here is exceptionally talented, and I'm eager to build on the agency's commitment to producing impactful work," Simmons shared.

Toby Talbot, Chief Creative Officer of Ogilvy Network ANZ, underscored the agency's focus on creative effectiveness and the strategic importance of Simmons' appointment. "We believe creativity should deliver tangible results," Talbot said. "With Ant's blend of international perspective and local understanding, alongside Max McKeon in Sydney, we're poised to unlock new levels of creativity for Ogilvy Australia."  

The elevation of Ant Simmons underscores Ogilvy Melbourne's commitment to fostering creative excellence and driving innovative solutions for its clients.

Also Read: Former Ogilvy Creative Lead Hilary Badger joins Leo Australia as ECD