DDB Group elevates Mike Napolitano to lead Melbourne operations as new group CEO

DDB Group has elevated DDB Melbourne managing director Mike Napolitano to the position of Melbourne Group CEO as the agency continues its growth trajectory.

In his elevated role, Napolitano will continue to be responsible for leading the DDB Group in Melbourne, including brands DDB, Tribal, Rapp, and Mango. 

Napolitano joined DDB Melbourne in 2020 as group managing director. He brings with him more than 23 years of experience in brand and marketing communications. 

During his time leading DDB Group Melbourne, Napolitano has led a transformation of the agency and the refocusing of the business on a strong creative agenda. Under his term, the agency bagged new client wins, including Coles, New Balance, Dulux, Movember, and multiple government accounts. 

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He has also attracted top talents like group executive creative director Psembi Kinstan, head of planning Matt Pearce, head of DDB Group experience Ella Ward, and chief operating officer Tristan Alexander to the agency’s leadership team. 

Prior to DDB, he served as the managing director of TBWA Melbourne and has also worked in leadership roles at George Patterson Y&R. 

Napolitano’s promotion follows the appointment this month of Khia Croy as DDB Melbourne’s new general manager, as the agency continues to enjoy strong growth across new clients. 

Andrew Little, President and CEO of DDB Australia and New Zealand, said,
“Having spent so much of my career at DDB Melbourne, I am incredibly proud of Mike and the whole team for what they have achieved in the last few years. Mike is a brilliant leader who not only runs the Melbourne Group businesses but also contributes significantly to our other leaders and businesses across the region. This is a very popular decision and is most deserved.” 

Commenting on his promotion, Napolitano also shared,
“It’s a great privilege to lead this amazing team in Melbourne. We’ve all worked hard on making the experience of being here at DDB Group Melbourne one of the best in the industry, and that’s true for our people and our clients. There is still so much potential in our team, and I’m excited and committed to working with the hugely talented leadership group to grow people’s careers and grow our clients’ brands through the creative power of our business. I truly have one of the best jobs in the industry.” 

Napolitano will report to Little, and his appointment is effective immediately. 

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