Richard Hartell appointed CEO of EssenceMediacom U.S. by GroupM

GroupM, the media investment group of WPP, has announced the promotion of Richard Hartell to CEO of EssenceMediacom U.S., effective immediately. In his new role, Hartell will oversee U.S. operations, client relations, and business development for the agency, which has recently been recognized as one of the top-performing networks in WARC Media 100 and WARC Effectiveness 100 rankings. It was also named the largest media network globally by billings according to COMvergence.

Hartell, who previously served as the Global CEO of Media Futures Group (MFG), GroupM’s specialized team for Google, will continue to lead the global client relationship with Google while joining the GroupM North America leadership team. He will report to Sharb Farjami, CEO of GroupM North America. Farjami praised Hartell, saying, “Richard is a bright, capable and proven leader at GroupM. He successfully led one of our most significant client relationships and has an unbeaten track record for driving success for the world’s leading brands over the years. His strategic skillset, industry expertise, and deep existing relationships with our clients make him a natural fit to lead EssenceMediacom U.S. into the future. We’re excited for Richard to continue his success at the agency, delivering the best of what GroupM has to offer.”

Hartell brings over 25 years of experience in global media agencies and major brands. He joined EssenceMediacom (formerly Essence) in 2021 as the Global Chief Client Officer for Google. During his tenure, Hartell has led teams in strategy, planning, content, data, and technology, earning numerous industry awards and achieving profitable growth for clients. He was also instrumental in securing the first paid activation on the Las Vegas Exosphere and in guiding Google's investment in women’s sports.

Hartell expressed his enthusiasm about the new role, stating, “Leading media for Google, at such a progressive agency as EssenceMediacom, has been the highlight of my career. I couldn’t be more excited to continue this journey as we shape the next era of media within one of the world’s largest media agencies. This agency is home to the best talent in the business and we’re well-positioned to lead the way on how modern marketing through media, data and technology can make advertising work better for everyone.”

Nick Lawson, Global CEO of EssenceMediacom, highlighted Hartell's fit for the role, saying, “Richard’s track record with Media Futures Group makes him a great fit to lead EssenceMediacom in the U.S. His dedication to the transformation and growth of our clients and our talent is unmatched. Richard’s tenacity and humanity is a winning combination.”

JiYoung Kim, Chief Operating Officer at GroupM North America and interim CEO of EssenceMediacom U.S., added, “Richard is a force of nature in our business and a trusted partner of one of the world’s most premium brands. His expertise has no limit, and his deep understanding of our clients’ needs and challenges makes him uniquely positioned to secure their future growth. I’m thrilled to continue working closely with Richard as I return to focus on my day-to-day role at GroupM.”

Before joining EssenceMediacom, Hartell spent nearly two decades at Publicis Media in various leadership roles, including Global Chief Strategy Officer and President of Strategy & Transformation. He also held positions at Starcom and Spark Foundry, working with clients such as Samsung, Mondelez, Heineken, and Citi in the UK and U.S.

Outside of his professional life, Hartell is involved with the Junior Diabetes Research Fund. He resides in Manhattan with his wife and three children and will remain based in New York in his new role.

Also Read: Morphy Richards launches new campaign for its Keraflow Hair Straightener