Ikon Melbourne strengthens with appointment of ex-OMD’s Sharon Cookson as agency director

Ikon Communications Melbourne has announced the appointment of Sharon Cookson (left) in the role of agency director. Her current role is head of strategy and content at OMD Melbourne so she brings with her, strong strategic and creative skills.

Ikon is rolling out a national business strategy around having centres of excellence in each marketplace. The Melbourne office is focused on strategy and innovation so Cookson’s appointment helps to bolster this direction.

Cookson’s impressive background includes being a co-founder of KWP! and working there for 15 years and also being a managing partner of Zenith Optimedia in New Zealand. Cookson completed an MBA in business and corporate strategy from the AGSM. Her clients have included Mazda, Fonterra, and previously Nestle, Lion Nathan, L’Oreal, Qantas and Sony.

Whilst the vast majority of Cookson’s time will be spent directly in the Ikon Melbourne business she will also have a national remit helping to further develop the strategic capabilities and approach for Ikon nationally.

Says Cookson: “I’m so delighted to be joining Ikon, they’re an amazing organization, with a clear focus on delivering great results for their clients through creativity and commitment to developing their people. I’m really excited about helping build on Ikon’s already remarkable success and contribute to the depth of their strategic capabilities.”     

Says Trudi Sampola, managing director Ikon Melbourne: “Sharon is one of the most respected strategic minds in the Melbourne marketplace and I can’t wait to work with her again. She’s not only brilliantly talented but passionate about people and culture and this is exactly what Ikon is all about. What a perfect fit.”