Publicis Groupe Hong Kong expands creative team with key promotions and appointments

Hong Kong – Publicis Groupe Hong Kong has elevated Halo Cheng to executive creative director (ECD) and Stratos Efstathiou to head of art, while also adding four senior creatives to its team.

Cheng began her career as a copywriter at Leo Burnett Hong Kong and has since worked on campaigns for global brands. In 2024, she represented Hong Kong on the Cannes Lions jury.

Efstathiou, originally from Cape Town and based in Hong Kong for the past decade, is an art director with international experience. His work has been recognised at numerous award-giving bodies. 

“It’s an exciting time for Publicis Groupe in Hong Kong with Halo and Stratos stepping into broader leadership roles and the arrival of four incredible talents who not only add to our creative calibre – they’re also an amazing booster to an already thriving creative playground,” said Christopher Lee, chief creative officer at Publicis Groupe Hong Kong.

Alongside the promotions, Publicis Groupe Hong Kong has also named Soenar Santoso, Kawa Wong, Ethan Chu, and Bernice Chin to its creative department.

Santoso, from Indonesia, joins as creative director with 12 years of experience and a portfolio spanning startups and global brands. Wong, who entered the industry in 2020, takes on the role of associate creative director and previously represented Hong Kong at Cannes Young Lions in 2023.

Chu has been appointed senior copywriter, bringing experience in developing campaigns for international brands. With a background in film and philosophy, his work aims to combine creativity with impact.

Chin returns to Hong Kong from Chicago to take up a copywriter role. Her expertise includes social media strategy, trend analysis, content creation, and digital marketing.

All appointments take effect immediately.

João Braga, global executive creative director at Publicis Groupe Hong Kong, commented, “Soenar, Kawa, Bernice and Ethan are the nicest, most talented humans, and we’re thrilled to have them on board. With Halo and Stratos’ expanded new roles, we’re now more than ready to elevate our craft and push the boundaries of our creative offering.”