Aussie expat creative Joe Hawkins departs R/GA Singapore for ACD role at McCann Sydney

Award-winning copywriter and rock band drumming machine Joe Hawkins has left the sweat-drenched shores of Singapore to take up an associate creative director role at McCann Sydney.

Hawkins has been away from Australia for over 5 years, having spent the past year at digital hot-shop R/GA Singapore and a four year stint at DDB Auckland. Prior to this he was writing up a storm at Gatecrasher, Perth.

His award credits include wins at the major award shows including Cannes, One Show, D&AD, LIA, Adfest, AWARD and Axis, and he’s worked with a diverse range of clients in both a traditional and digital capacity.

His work at R/GA included digital projects for Rip Curl, Wateraid, Mastercard and Unilever (Rexona), while his time at DDB saw him taking a Group Head role on SKY TV while tackling work for key clients Cadbury, McDonald’s, Stella Artois, The Warehouse and National Foundation for the Deaf.

“It’s great to be back in Australia, and it’s great to come into an agency that’s hungry for change.  Oli, Ash, Ben and John are on a mission, and I’m bloody excited to join them on it.

“Having said that, the most disappointing thing for me is that I’ve just written a really clichéd and insincere sounding statement. Knob.”

Says McCann Sydney ECD Oliver Maisey: “It’s important that we have the right people in a place moving forwards, and with Joe we’ve struck gold. He’s only just got here and he’s already proving to be invaluable. Huge talent, a brilliant work ethic, and great taste in shoes. The red ones he’s wearing today are outstanding.”

Hawkins’ arrival has also been well received by the local organisers of AWARD School, having worked closely with them to establish a presence in Singapore.  

Says Linda Anderson, Professional Training Manager from the Communications Council: “I had the privilege of working with Joe last year on AWARD School and his drive and inspiration to ensure his students got the most out of it was admirable.  I am delighted to have him involved in the Sydney programme, to share his experience and knowledge with this year’s intake of young creatives.”