Auckland, New Zealand – Colenso BBDO has announced the appointment of James Bennett as group planning director and deputy head of planning. Originally from Melbourne, Bennett joins the agency after seven years at Wieden+Kennedy London, where he worked on major global brands including Sainsbury’s, Samsung, Formula 1, and Nike.
Bennett brings with him extensive international experience in strategic planning and brand storytelling. His move to New Zealand marks a new chapter both professionally and personally, as he recently became a new father.
“I’ve always credited Colenso BBDO for helping me fall in love with this industry. Whether it be from Melbourne or London, I’ve watched them from afar with jealousy—convinced they must know something the rest of us don’t. So, when the offer came through, I knew I couldn’t say no. I can’t wait to get stuck into the work with their world-class team (and obviously uncover their secrets),” said Bennett.
Meanwhile, Angela Watson, CEO at Colenso BBDO, said, “We’ve always had a soft spot for who think differently. James is one of those minds. He arrives with global experience, unfiltered curiosity, and the kind of strategic hunger that keeps everyone else on their toes.”
Meanwhile, Rob Campbell, CSO at Colenso BBDO, added, “There’s loads of people who talk a great game about their strategic chops. James showed it through the range of incredible work he’s actually made. If that didn’t win me over, his beautiful smile did.”
