Havas Media Network launches CSA consultancy in SEA, appoints James McNeely to lead

Havas Media Network has launched CSA, its global technology, data and analytics consultancy arm, in Southeast Asia, naming James McNeely as head of CSA for the region.

With more than 13 years of experience in data, analytics and MarTech, McNeely will spearhead CSA’s expansion across Southeast Asia. Based in Singapore, he reports to Pankaj Nayak, CEO of Havas Media Network Singapore and president of Havas Media SEA.

Before coming into the role, he was the head of data tech and analytics, media at dentsu international where he led a cross-functional team of specialists to optimise processes and drive impactful outcomes for clients, according to his LinkedIn. He was also a data strategy lead at VMLY&R and spent an eight-year stint at Isentia. 

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Outside of agencies and firms, McNeely was the analytics manager at the University of Sydney where he worked closely with the head of digital and university stakeholders to develop digital optimisations and drive data-led decision making across the organisation. 

CSA’s launch marks another step in Havas Media Network’s regional growth following the rollouts of Havas Market and Havas Play.

Since its global debut in June 2023, CSA has expanded rapidly to more than 20 markets including the Middle East, Australia, China and India, and with a team of over 400 specialists covering data science, AI, behavioural economics, MarTech and digital strategy.

“Our strategic growth in this region is driven by a bold ambition—to build a future-facing network anchored in strong, differentiated capabilities. With Southeast Asia’s immense potential, CSA’s unique mix of global expertise and local insight puts us in a stronger position to help brands navigate complexity, seize new opportunities, and create lasting impact," said Rana Barua, group CEO of Havas India, SEA and North Asia. 

Meanwhile, Nayak added “With data and technology increasingly shaping business transformation, CSA empowers us to reimagine how we use data and technology — not just as tools, but as catalysts for meaningful brand growth." 

To his new role, McNeely said he aims to “strengthen local capabilities and partner closely with businesses to deliver smarter, data-led outcomes that drive measurable impact.”

CSA’s offerings span three core areas: CSA Tech, focusing on automation, data integration and digital transformation; CSA Science, which centres on proprietary measurement tools; and CSA Consult, a global network of experts providing strategic insights to accelerate client growth.

The launch of CSA follows Havas’ broader push to scale its converged strategy in Asia Pacific, including the recent appointment of Joris Knetsch as executive vice president of Prose on Pixels, a new AI-powered content production agency. Knetsch is tasked with leading its regional rollout from Singapore. Knetsch’s expertise in technology-driven production and deep regional knowledge aim to accelerate Havas’ integrated approach combining media, creative and production to deliver smarter, faster content solutions across Southeast Asia.

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