Australia – TBWA has announced the appointment of Kimberlee Wells as chief executive officer of TBWA\Australia, extending her leadership across both the Sydney and Melbourne offices.
Wells has led TBWA\Melbourne for nearly a decade, overseeing growth and building long-term partnerships with clients including NAB and Australian Defence Force Recruiting. During her tenure, the agency has delivered work credited with driving results in commercial performance, brand health, and customer satisfaction.
Her appointment follows the rollout of Omnicom’s Oceania operating model across Australia and New Zealand, under the leadership of Nick Garrett as CEO. The model is designed to strengthen agencies through shared scale, data, and technology, while maintaining creative independence.
Under the new structure, Wells will guide TBWA\Australia in advancing its Disruption® philosophy, which the agency says will provide greater commercial impact for clients and expanded opportunities for talent.
Nick Garrett, CEO at Omnicom Oceania, said, “I’ve known Kimberlee for more than a decade and have huge respect for her. She’s passionate, tenacious and curious – qualities that make her stand out as a leader. Her ability to build strong client partnerships and lead people with conviction sets her apart.
“As CEO of TBWA\Australia, Kimberlee will define the agency’s vision, setting it up for even greater success. I’m looking forward to working closely with her and her leadership team to design the future for our clients, supported by the full strength of Omnicom Oceania.”
Meanwhile, Kimberlee commented, “I’m delighted to accept the role of CEO for TBWA\Australia. Working alongside Nick and our national leadership team, our clients will experience the full potency of TBWA’s Disruption® philosophy, amplified by the scale and capability that only Omnicom can offer.”
Erin Riley, global CEO, TBWA\Worldwide, said, “Disruption® has always been the heartbeat of TBWA, creativity that challenges convention and builds growth which lasts.
“Kimberlee is the right leader to carry TBWA\Australia into this next chapter. She brings clarity in complexity and conviction in creativity, alongside a track record of strong commercial problem solving with her client partners. She is equal parts head and heart, and I can’t wait to see what she does next.”
In addition to her new role, Wells will continue serving as Practice Lead of Sustain by TBWA at a global level.
