WiTH Collective snares M&C Saatchi’s Alex Roper for newly created group planning director role

WiTH Collective has appointed M&C Saatchi strategy director Alex Roper (right) to the newly created role of group planning director, charged with helping the agency stay at the leading edge of ideas, technology and data driven marketing techniques.

The role forms part of the agency’s trans-Tasman growth plans, and will work across Sydney, Auckland and Melbourne – in line with future expansion plans.

Roper joins after five years in strategy at M&C Saatchi, and five years at FCB Global where he worked in account service in London and as head of digital firect in Australia. Roper brings a wealth of experience with blue-chip clients, notably Optus and Commonwealth Bank of Australia, and a passion for the WiTH business model.

WiTH CEO and co-founder Justin Hind (above, right) said it is Roper’s shared belief in the future of customer marketing grounded in creativity, data and technology that made him a perfect fit.

Says Hind: “We’re very excited to welcome Alex aboard in this new role. His pragmatic and collaborative nature aligns perfectly with our business, our clients and the way we work. His strategic mind complements, and will push, our current team, and help us deliver amazing results for our clients.”

As group planning director, Roper will work closely with Hind and CCO Steve Coll to help raise the creative and strategic thinking of projects across clients and the company.

Says Roper: “I can’t wait to start at WiTH Collective. Their vision for expansion and clear role within the ever-growing Dentsu Aegis Network make it a really exciting time to join and help make those plans a reality. And they’re a terribly nice group of people.”

Roper will join the team on 28 August.