Former dentsu leader Fiona Johnston takes top role at YarnnUp

Fiona Johnston, former dentsu ANZ executive, has joined First Nations-led consultancy YarnnUp as managing director as the business looks to expand its national footprint.

Johnston brings more than two decades of leadership experience across media, communications and marketing, most recently at dentsu ANZ. She has also held senior roles at UM ANZ, IPG Mediabrands, MediaCom Australia and Havas.

Founded in 2018 by William Trewlynn and Ray Alam, YarnnUp works with organisations on First Nations consulting, creative and cultural capability. Its client roster includes Tourism Australia, McDonald's Australia, Allianz, DHL, QBE, Philips Australia and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Johnston will oversee the day-to-day management of the business while working alongside founders Trewlynn and Alam as YarnnUp invests in new services, talent and client partnerships.

William Trewlynn, co-founder and director of creative and culture at YarnnUp, said Johnston's appointment would allow the founders to focus on the long-term direction of the business.

"We're exceptionally proud of what our team has built, and we've reached a moment in our growth where realising our full potential means working in a new way. Bringing Fiona in as managing director does exactly that," he said.

Johnston said she was looking forward to helping lead the consultancy's next stage of growth.

"I'm excited to help realise the next phase of the YarnnUp business, leading an amazing and talented team alongside Will and Ray to ensure our impact and client partnerships can create important work that makes us all proud."