Omnicom Media names new global brand president for OMD

Omnicom Media has appointed Ellen Griffin (pictured) as global brand president of its media agency network, OMD, succeeding George Manas, who has moved to Omnicom as chief growth and solutions officer.

Griffin most recently served as president and global chief operating officer at OMD.

In her new role, which takes effect immediately, she will oversee strategy, capabilities and service solutions for the agency globally, ensuring markets are equipped with the tools, talent and technology needed to drive growth for clients, the business and its people.

The role of global brand president is a newly introduced title across Omnicom Media agencies following the group's acquisition of IPG, replacing what was previously known as the global CEO position.

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According to Florian Adamski, CEO, Omnicom Media, the leadership appointment reflects the network’s focus on placing practitioner-leaders in senior roles across its agencies. “George has been an exceptional steward of the OMD brand over the past four years,” Adamski said, noting that during Manas’ tenure the network strengthened its position as a leading media agency globally.

Griffin joined OMD in 2018 as global innovation director and has since played a key role in evolving the agency’s operating model, talent strategy and capabilities to address the changing needs of modern marketers.

She later moved into the role of global chief client solutions officer, where she helped develop customised client solutions powered by the Omni Intelligence Platform. As the agency’s first global COO, she also led the development and adoption of customised operating models across OMD’s global client base.

Adamski said Griffin brings extensive experience, having led marketing transformation for clients including The Clorox Company, McDonald's and PepsiCo.

“She will ensure OMD agencies around the world fully leverage Omnicom Media’s strengths in scale, data, identity, commerce and talent to unlock growth for our clients."

Griffin takes on the role at a time when the marketing landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with platforms shifting, commerce expanding and AI reshaping how consumers discover and engage with brands.

“In this environment, clients need partners who help them navigate not only the challenges they see, but the ones they do not yet recognise,” Griffin said. “By connecting insights, platforms, data and media strategy, we help clients anticipate change, unlock new opportunities for growth and act with confidence in an increasingly dynamic landscape.”

The move is part of a series of leadership changes underway across the group globally.

Joey Zhao, CEO of PHD China, was appointed chief operating officer of Omnicom Media China earlier this month, bringing 15 years of experience to the role. Zhao will continue to lead PHD China alongside his new group-wide responsibilities.

Meanwhile, Omnicom Production has appointed Melissa Chan as its CEO for APAC, according to a post she shared on LinkedIn. She reports directly to Omnicom Production global CEO Sergio Lopez.

Earlier this year, MARKETING-INTERACTIVE reported that Omnicom Public Relations would restructure its global PR portfolio following Omnicom’s acquisition of IPG. It was said that Golin and Ketchum would merge to form a single agency, while Porter Novelli will integrate as a dedicated brand within FleishmanHillard.

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