DDB Sydney strengthens strategic division hiring ex-Droga5’s Anna Bollinger as planning director

DDB has announced the appointment of Anna Bollinger to the role of planning director at DDB Sydney as it continues to strengthen the strategic division following a highly successful 2013.

Bollinger was formerly a senior planner at Droga5 where she worked across a broad portfolio of Mondelez (formerly Kraft) brands as well as Qantas, in particular their Frequent Flyer program.

Previous to her role at Droga5, Bollinger worked as a planner at BMF where her work with the Commonwealth Bank of Australia received an AMI Award for Excellence. In addition, she was awarded the 2009 APG Planning Idol for top Account Planner in Australia under the age of 30.

Says Leif Stromnes, DDB Sydney managing director, strategy and innovation: “We are really pleased to welcome Anna to our growing strategy division as we continue to develop effective interconnected ideas for our clients.

“Her diverse experience across communication, strategy as well as social will allow her to seamlessly work with our Social Intelligence Unit to craft and present strategy that pushes barriers.”

The Strategic Division at DDB Sydney has gone from strength to strength under Mr. Stromnes guidance, including a hugely successful year for the Social Intelligence Unit, which was integral to many of the award-winning campaigns from the agency in 2013.

Says Bollinger: “Planning today is increasingly about driving participation and building relationships that deliver real purpose and utility. It needs to seamlessly connect and motivate consumer behaviour, developing branded ecosystems that enhance their experience. DDB has the vision and drive to truly innovate the way brands influence and impact the lives of people who interact with them.”

Bollinger will work across a number of clients including Westpac, providing her with a return to the financial services space.

Says Bollinger: “The pace and innovation of the category today is very exciting. It is great to have the opportunity to work with the leaders in this field and be a part of their on-going success.”

Says Chris Brown, DDB Group Australia CEO: “DDB Sydney’s strategy and planning division has grown to be one of the largest and strongest in Australia. Our on-going vision is to be the most diverse strategic agency and we continue to harness the best talent and expertise in the industry to achieve this both for the agency and our clients.”