Blue Marlin, Sydney CD Ian Catling steps into MD role – Polly Williams becomes associate CD
Blue Marlin is proud to announce that Ian Catling (left), creative director of Blue Marlin Asia Pacific, will be taking the helm of the agency’s Sydney office as managing director. His appointment marks the first time in the integrated brand agency’s 20-year history that a creative has been tapped for this role. Catling replaces current managing director Marshall Ward, who transfers to Blue Marlin London at the end of 2012 to assume the same position there. Senior designer Polly Williams will be stepping up to lead Sydney’s creative team as associate creative director.
Catling is one of the agency’s longest serving employees, having helped extend Blue Marlin’s presence in Australia, from Melbourne to Sydney, 10 years ago. He is also responsible for building a leading design team in the Asia Pacific Region. His vast experience includes work with clients such as Absolut Vodka, Bacardi, Coca-Cola, Fosters, Arnott’s and Penfolds. As managing director of the Sydney office, Catling will direct the group’s creative and commercial activities.
Says Andrew Eyles, Blue Marlin co-founder and CEO: “Ian has been at the heart of our Sydney studio for more than a decade, from its inception to its recognised position today as a leader in design. His commitment and personal development has been outstanding, and he is ready to lead our business in Australia.”
Polly Williams (left), who has 12 years of FMCG branding experience, brings both local and global perspectives to her new role. At Blue Marlin, she has worked on many iconic Australian brands for clients including Schweppes, Nestle, Lion, Unilever and WeightWatchers. Additionally, she works on projects for Blue Marlin clients in Asia and Europe. Williams will provide inspiration and guidance to Sydney’s creative team, ensuring that our clients continue to receive powerful creative solutions.
Says Catling: “Polly has been a valued member of the Blue Marlin Sydney Team since 2008. She brings imagination and heart to the role. We are very fortunate to have such a talent on our team and have full confidence in her creative leadership.”