Saatchi & Saatchi has been appointed as the New Zealand Olympic Committee’s (NZOC) agency of record following a competitive pitch that began in March.
The agency will work with the NZOC on its communications across the board, beginning with campaigns to support the New Zealand Winter Olympic Team to PyeongChang in February 2018, the NZ Commonwealth Games Team to the Gold Coast in April 2018, through to the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo.
StopPress is awaiting confirmation from NZOC as to which other agencies were involved in the pitch.
NZOC commercial director Sharon van Gulik says it was really impressed by the work it saw from Saatchi and the way it approached the challenging brief.
“They presented compelling creative strategy and ideas that we are confident will resonate with our Team members and their fans and supporters throughout New Zealand and the world. They left us feeling excited and energised. Paul, Toby and the whole Saatchi team felt like an excellent cultural fit with us which was also key. We’re looking forward to a great partnership in the months and years ahead.”
The NZOC represents both the Olympic and Commonwealth Games movements in New Zealand with the aim to inspire excellence and pride in New Zealanders and enable the country’s elite athletes to achieve on the world stage.
Last year, that aim saw it work with a number of agencies to create a multi-layered campaign for the Rio Olympics. At the heart of it, was the ‘Be the Inspiration’ hub by Gladeye, which included video stories of what inspires the athletes, team messages and information about medal winners.
Time will tell what Saatchi will create for its new client and for now, managing director Paul Wilson says it’s an honour to be working with such a prestigious and inspiring organisation.
“Sharon and her team have an exciting vision for the brand here in New Zealand and we are delighted to be able to support them in achieving it.”
The win follows the loss of ASB earlier this month following a five-year partnership.
The bank is now finalising discussions with a preferred party to manage its digital, direct and data-based marketing requirements. It will look to add other specialist agencies to our roster in future.