DDB Melbourne bolsters planning team with hiring of Tom Hyde in planning director role

DDB Melbourne has announced the appointment of Tom Hyde to the position of planning director.

After completing his degree in Astrophysics, Hyde considered a career in the space industry but instead plumped for the world of planning, hoping to stretch his mind in new directions. 20 years later he has developed his own unique approach to developing strategy and can now with some authority take pleasure in pointing out “it’s not rocket science”.

With a Cannes Gold Lion under his belt he has held senior positions at Channel4, Profero and BMB

Outside his daily adman pursuits, Hyde is a keen writer and filmmaker. He has co-written three feature films one of which has been picked up and is currently in development in the UK. He has also written and co-directed a number of short films with his most recent, “Temps” being selected for the London Short Film Festival in 2013.

Says Hyde: “The world of brands is changing rapidly. We have moved from a two-dimensional brand world into a multi-dimensional brand space – a space where brands need to be more than just their product and message. They need to be entertainers, storytellers, facilitators, commentators, socialites, and innovators. It’s a tough space to navigate, let alone stand out. I am really excited about working with DDB to help our clients do just that.”

Says Ian Forth, DDB Melbourne, executive planning director: “We have long term plans to influence consumers beyond the traditional communications model. Hiring Tom, with his brilliantly lateral and eclectic approach, is a critical step on our journey. We’re very happy he has chosen us, as he was an outstanding candidate and will add great depth to the team.”