Sally Kissane steps down as Ogilvy Network ANZ CEO after three decades

Ogilvy Network ANZ CEO Sally Kissane will step down this month, ending a three-decade career with the global agency.

The respected agency leader confirmed her decision today, saying the time is right for new leadership as the network enters its next chapter.

“I have been incredibly fortunate to work with the most talented teams, as well as brave and innovative clients throughout my career at Ogilvy,” Kissane said. “It’s actually my loyalty to Ogilvy that has led me to make this difficult decision, at a time that our network, and our broader industry is at a pivotal point in its evolution.”

Kissane described the formation of the Ogilvy ANZ Network as a defining moment in her career. “Together with Ogilvy ANZ’s leaders and staff, we have almost doubled in size and connected our capabilities to become the most truly integrated agency in ANZ,” she said.

“I will miss Ogilvy, our people, and our clients immensely but will remain a close friend to the business, and will watch its continued success, cheering from the sidelines.”

Kissane’s career began in client service at Ogilvy Sydney in the early 1990s. She spent a decade in New York leading work on IBM’s global account, before returning to Australia where she rose through the ranks to become Ogilvy Australia’s Managing Director in 2018 and CEO in 2021.

Under her leadership, Ogilvy launched the Ogilvy Network ANZ, expanded its creative capabilities, and was named Employer of Choice seven years in a row by The Australian Business Awards – the only agency to achieve the feat.

Global Ogilvy CEO Devika Bulchandani said Kissane’s nearly three-decade journey at Ogilvy has been remarkable.

“Her infectious passion for our brand, our culture, and most importantly, the careers of our people has been clear to everyone she’s worked with. She didn’t just lead; she fostered an environment where creativity flourished.”

WPP AUNZ President Rose Herceg also paid tribute, highlighting Kissane’s role in shaping Ogilvy’s culture and developing female leadership.

“Her commitment to developing female leadership has been a driving force of change,” Herceg said. “Category-breaking initiatives like ‘Changing the Face’ and ‘SheCD’, along with programs like the Goliath Grad program, have led to a significant shift in ensuring Ogilvy’s talent reflects our broader community.”

Ogilvy said it is currently considering successors. In the interim, the agency’s existing leadership team will continue to drive the business, supported by WPP’s Australia and New Zealand operations.