Leo Australia has announced the appointment of three new Executive Creative Directors, reinforcing its leadership team across Melbourne and Sydney. Hilary Badger joins as Executive Creative Director in Melbourne, while Tommy Cehak and Tim Woolford have been promoted to Executive Creative Directors in Sydney.
Badger brings over 20 years of experience working with major brands in financial services, FMCG, automotive, retail, government, and tourism. Most recently, she served at Ogilvy Melbourne and has also contributed as an AWARD jury chair and lecturer.
Badger of her new role:
“With new business wins, new energy, even a new name – what an exciting time to join Clare Pickens, Andy Fergusson and the team. Creating transformative work for Australia’s biggest brands is what drives me. And to do so at Leo where diversity and humanity are recognised as essential to creativity – I’ve found the right home. With the seamless integration of agencies in Publicis Groupe elevating Leo’s own creative and strategic prowess, there’s a clear path forward to achieving the biggest, bravest and most effective creative work with the team at Leo.”
Andy Fergusson, Chief Creative Officer at Leo Australia, welcomed Badger’s appointment:
“I’m very excited that Hilary is joining the team. I’ve been a big fan of her work for a while now. She has a proven track record as a creative leader and is respected throughout the industry. She is the right person to build on the momentum in our Melbourne office; we are lucky to have her.”
Meanwhile, Cehak and Woolford, who joined Leo Australia in 2023, have played key roles in award-winning campaigns for Diageo, Amazon, and Destination NSW. Their notable projects, including Bundaberg Rum’s “Wedding that Fans Built” and Johnnie Walker’s “In Her Boots,” have earned global recognition at prestigious awards such as Cannes, Spikes, One Show, AWARD, and D&AD.
In their new roles, they will lead creative efforts for AAMI, GIO, and Suncorp Insurance following the recent consolidation of the Suncorp portfolio.
Fergusson also expressed enthusiasm for Cehak and Woolford’s promotions:
“I also couldn’t be happier to announce Tim and Tommy’s promotion. Since joining Leo, they have made a huge impact on the work, the people, and the culture. They have been instrumental in strengthening the agency’s position, and I am excited to see them grow into their new roles moving forward.”
The appointments signal an exciting new chapter for Leo Australia as the agency continues to drive creative excellence and innovation for some of Australia’s most prominent brands.
Read more: Ogilvy Promotes Ant Simmons to Executive Creative Director, Melbourne
