Alt/Shift appoints ex-Leo Burnett Melbourne’s Chris Steele as social media strategist + planner

Independent Fitzroy-based agency, Alt/Shift, has welcomed Chris Steele (left) to drive the agency’s social media offering and bolster its planning function, bringing a wealth of experience from working across blue chip clients and integrated campaigns.

Joining from Leo Burnett Melbourne where he established the social media department in his head of social media role, Steele oversaw the development and execution of social media strategy for brands including SPC, iSelect and Honda Australia, and will be driving Alt/Shift’s social offering and digitally integrated campaigns.

Says Elly Hewitt, MD, Alt/Shift: “We’re thrilled to welcome Chris as our social media strategist and planner, his appointment strengthens our planning capabilities and our creative output, which has already seen us develop big integrated ideas that have been exceptionally well received by our founding clients.”

Says Steele: “Social media continues to change how we live, it’s become a lens through which we interpret the world around us. What hasn’t changed is the power of genuine storytelling that makes a real impact.

“Understanding consumer behavior and creating content that resonates is at the heart of what we’re building at Alt/Shift. The talent Elly and the team are assembling here is pretty formidable, I’m excited to be part of the strategic vision for the agency.”

Since launching five months ago Alt/Shift has commenced working with some of Australia’s leading consumer and FMCG brands including Moose Toys, Metricon Homes, RMIT University, Visit Ballarat, La Trobe University and Thule.

Says Hewitt: “Chris complements an existing team who are energised to deliver the best work of their careers, through bringing the smarts and creative thinking that truly shift the dial for the brands we work with.”

“At Alt/Shift, our uncompromising approach to attracting and retaining the best talent and hiring based on attitude, potential and cultural fit has been the cornerstone to driving our exceptional business growth to date.”

The agency has also welcomed Leah Moir as account coordinator and is currently recruiting for a number of roles, including account director and account manager.