Australia – The global digital and conversational agency, Versa, in Australia, has announced two senior appointments, as part of its growing uptake in conversational AI technology across various sectors.
The new hires are Vanessa Tout, the new global head of client partnerships and growth, and Michael Oso-Hughes, the new design director.
Tout brings with her 15 years of experience in client engagement across the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. She has led strategic digital and commerce programs for brands including GM Holden, T2, and Marks & Spencer, as well as Goodyear Dunlop, among others. Tout has previously worked as the client partner at digital experience firm Isobar, and the client director at marketing and technology company Digitas UK.
In her new role, Tout will be taking responsibility for driving growth across new business and existing client partnerships in key markets, including Australia, the US, and India. By leading the newly formed Growth Team, Vanessa will bring together marketing, new business, and client services experts, providing a holistic experience to clients at every stage of engagement.
Meanwhile, Oso-Hughes joins VERSA with a strong pedigree working on some of the brands including Samsung, Microsoft, and Disney, as well as Unilever, and Cancer Institute of NSW at agencies including Isobar, Soap, and The Monkeys.
In his new role, Oso-Hughes will be leading VERSA’s design offering, from approach and methodology through to voice UX and UI. He will also be adding his expertise to the agency’s team of conversational AI experts shaping the future of conversational design.
Commenting on her appointment, Tout said, “I’m thrilled to join VERSA to drive the next phase of growth in conversational AI, contact center automation, and voice technology at a time when meaningful dialogue between brands and people has never been more important.”
Oso-Hughes also commented, “It’s an honor to join the VERSA team of thinkers, problem solvers, and creators working at the cutting edge of conversational AI globally. I’m already blown away by the caliber of work we’re delivering.”
VERSA CEO, Kath Blackham, shared that they are excited to have two amazing talents of the quality of Tout and Oso-Hughes join them to take on these incredibly important roles.
“Vanessa is one of the best in the business, with loads of experience leading digital transformation engagements at scale and galvanizing cross-functional teams to deliver exceptional results, while Michael has already made a big impact in a short amount of time, both through his work and his infectious personality and passion for his craft that makes everyone around him better too,” said Blackham.