China – Publicis Groupe Asia Pacific has named Mickey Zhang as president of Publicis Media in China, strengthening its senior leadership team amid a period of strong growth momentum for the Groupe in the market.
In this newly created role, Zhang will oversee the development of Publicis Groupe China’s media capabilities and strengthen client relationships in a key market. She will also lead the expansion of the Groupe’s Connected Media proposition in China, integrating strategy, planning, commerce, omni-performance, influence, and CRM with a focus on identity-driven solutions.
Zhang will also lead initiatives to strengthen the Groupe’s partnerships and expand its presence in China. Her role will involve utilising AI solutions and data-driven insights to support the company’s client-focused strategy.
With this appointment, Publicis Groupe brings together its media agencies—Zenith, Starcom, Spark Foundry, and its middle platform—under Zhang’s leadership in China.
Zhang brings over 20 years of experience in branding, media, strategic planning, sales, and marketing. Before joining Publicis Groupe China, she spent three years at Shanghai Jahwa, where she held roles including chief marketing officer, general manager of the beauty and baby products division, and chief digital officer. She led strategies that strengthened the company’s branding, marketing, sales, and e-commerce operations.
Before Shanghai Jahwa, Zhang also spent nine years at GroupM China in leadership roles, including chief product and service officer, where she established services in e-commerce, social, audience insights, activations, and influencer marketing. She also held senior positions at Baidu, Google, and eBay, focusing on digital marketing solutions.
Speaking about her appointment, Zhang said, “I’m delighted to be part of the Publicis family! As a global leader in marketing communications, Publicis Groupe has been steadfast in its investment in scaling up and enhancing its capabilities and expertise in data, technology, media, and creativity to deliver outstanding value to its clients. It’s truly a privilege to have the chance to work with inspiring and passionate colleagues, as we continue to innovate and remain at the forefront in the field of media, creativity, and communications.”
Zhang will be based in Shanghai and report to Publicis Groupe Asia Pacific CEO Jane Lin-Baden.
“Our latest earnings report highlights 6.4% growth for China in 2024, outperforming the industry. It adds to our impressive 5-year track record of leading new business,” Lin-Baden said.
She added, “Mickey’s appointment is a strategic move to strengthen China’s senior leadership and embark on our next chapter of transformation. Her diverse experience across client, agency, and technology platforms sets her up to lead our Connected Media proposition, with access to our proprietary, cutting-edge products and solutions. Her expertise will undoubtedly enhance our commitment to our clients and strengthen our partnership with them.”
