.99 announced the appointment of DDB’s Paul Hankinson as its new creative director last week. And he will be joined by Ogilvy’s current head of art Nic Hall, who has accepted the role of deputy creative director and head of art.
Hall has been with Ogilvy for five years and spent eight years with Meares Taine before it merged with Ogilvy.
“The move to Ogilvy gave me different opportunities and new challenges. The transition seemed seamless, so I now feel as though I am moving on not simply after five years at Ogilvy, but after 13 years collectively. Being at an agency of Ogilvy’s size has allowed me to take on a greater mentoring role, which was another aspect of the last five years that has been personally rewarding. I wish the agency and clients all the best.”
Executive creative director Damon O’Leary, who took over sole creative control when his art directing partner Basil Christensen announced his departure in September last year, was philosophical about Hall’s decision.
“I am obviously disappointed but can see his move to .99 is a great opportunity—and one which will suit Nic’s huge talent. In my view, Nic is one of New Zealand’s best art directors.”
Hall starts at .99 in April.
