Clems Adelaide hires Tom Williamson as head of social + Hayley Kroon as social media manager

Clemenger BBDO Adelaide has bolstered its social media credentials with the appointment of Tom Williamson to the newly created position of head of social and Hayley Kroon as its new social media manager.

According to Bryce Coombe, managing director Clemenger BBDO Adelaide, the appointments reflect changing market conditions.

Says Coombe: “We have been managing social media activity and campaigns on behalf of our clients for over 3 years now and in that short period of time, we have already seen drastic changes in the way consumers are engaging with brands via social media. Tom and Hayley’s experience with brands across many sectors make them an ideal team to guide clients through the ever-evolving landscape and build engaged social communities.”

The appointments come just a few months after Clemenger’s acquisition of digital agency LiTHe, which nearly doubled the size of the agency’s digital department. Bryn Liepins, head of digital, said the appointments were the “missing piece” as the Adelaide market is in desperate need for an agency that can lead the way in delivering “best-practice” social media campaigns.

Says Liepins: “We see a number of agencies and consultants dabbling in the social space and some of them are doing a good job. However, at the same time, we believe Adelaide doesn’t have a leading, full-service agency in this space. Under the strategic leadership of Tom Williamson, and backed by our creative and digital capabilities, we now have a 100% integrated offering. By keeping these services in-house, we are able to offer clients an affordable advertising solution.”

Williamson has a wealth of national experience managing brands across a range of sectors including Panasonic Australia, Unilever, Tourism Northern Territory, and a selection of Nestlé’s sub-brands.

Says Williamson: “I am thrilled about the prospect and challenge that lies ahead. The Clemenger board and I share a very similar vision when it comes to social media and what the local needs and opportunities are. There are a large number of South Australian brands and businesses who are yet to unlock the real potential of social media, and I am excited about working with them to explore where social media fits into – and how it will benefit – their businesses.”

Kroon has previously managed 25 social communities for SME businesses on behalf of Sensis in Melbourne. Kroon’s main focus will be on managing communities and working with Clemenger BBDO Adelaide’s social media clients to achieve their strategic goals.

Says Coombe: “We know some South Australian marketing managers and business owners may think of us as big and expensive, but the truth is that the digital revolution has resulted in a much more level playing field for all brands and businesses. With the additions of Tom and Hayley, we now also have a specialised social media team who can help any South Australian brand or business leverage the power of social media, no matter how small or big their budget.”