Australia – VML Australia and New Zealand (VML ANZ) has announced a leadership transition, with chief executive officer Tom Tearle stepping down after nearly five years in the role. Paul Bradbury, former president and CEO of TBWA Australia and New Zealand, has been appointed as his successor, effective immediately.
According to the agency, Tearle and Bradbury will work together over the coming weeks to ensure continuity for staff and clients during the transition period.
During Tearle’s tenure, VML ANZ recorded a period of growth and creative recognition. The agency’s Australian operation ranked first in Campaign Brief’s The Work for three consecutive years and delivered award-winning campaigns, including FitChix. It also co-developed technology-led products such as Rip Curl Search GPS 2.0.
“Working with the VML ANZ team fills me with immense pride and gratitude,” said Tom Tearle. “We’ve achieved remarkable things together, building an agency renowned for its creativity, innovation, and an incredible team culture. Witnessing our collective drive and success has been rewarding, and I am proud of the business we’ve created. I have full confidence that Paul, with his vast experience and vision, will lead VML ANZ to even greater heights. I’m committed to ensuring a smooth and successful transition, knowing the future is bright for this team.”
Incoming CEO Paul Bradbury said he has followed the agency’s trajectory closely.
“I’ve watched VML ANZ’s impressive rise with admiration. Tom and the team have built a strong legacy of consistent success, culminating in an unprecedented run of Network of the Year titles. VML offers the scale, capability and ambition to continue to build something genuinely differentiated for clients and talent across Australia and New Zealand. I am also energised to be joining WPP – the incredible global new business momentum at the back end of last year is testament to the progressive leadership and future focused innovation across the company.”
Meanwhile, Yi Chung Tay, APAC CEO of VML, also commented on the leadership change.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Tom for his contributions to VML ANZ. His impact has left the agency in a strong, growing position. As we embark on this next chapter, I am thrilled to welcome Paul Bradbury to the VML network. Paul’s proven track record, strategic vision, and deep industry experience make him the ideal leader to build on this success and drive VML ANZ forward. I am excited for the future under Paul’s leadership.”
Bradbury joins VML ANZ after a decade as president and CEO of TBWA Australia and New Zealand. During his tenure, TBWA expanded its client portfolio to include global brands such as Apple, Amazon, Kraft Heinz and Tourism New Zealand, as well as regional clients including Telstra, NAB, ANZ New Zealand and 2Degrees.
He was also involved in the formation of +61, a bespoke agency created for Telstra in partnership with Bear Meets Eagle on Fire and OMD, which won a Film Grand Prix and eight Lions at the 2025 Cannes Lions within 18 months of launch.
VML ANZ said Bradbury’s focus on emerging technologies, including generative AI, aligns with the agency’s broader innovation strategy.
The agency operates six offices across Australia and New Zealand, located in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, Auckland and Wellington.
