Host joint executive creative director Julian Watt departs agency for UK after two years in the role

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Julian Watt_0080 Background HRM[3] (1).jpgSydney creative agency Host has announced the imminent departure of Julian Watt, one of its two executive creative directors, after nearly two years in the role, following his decision to re-locate to the UK for family reasons.

Says Anthony Freedman, CEO, Host: “Julian has made an outstanding contribution to our business, and in partnership with co-ECD Bob Mackintosh, has built a creative department and culture of which we are extremely proud. Whilst we are very sorry to see him go, we do understand his reasons and we wish him and his family every happiness in their new life in London.”

Says Watt: “The stage is set for Host to have an excellent 2016 off the back of strong growth this year, and I am sorry not to be continuing on the journey with them. I leave with a heavy heart and have loved my time with the agency, working within a fantastic department and a world class leadership team. I wish them every success in the future.”

Originally from South Africa, Watt moved to Sydney in late 2007 from Net#work BBDO, South Africa’s most maverick creative agency. Under his creative directorship, it was awarded South Africa’s Agency of the Year five times in six years and received numerous international awards including a Grand Prix at Cannes for the Nedbank solar paneled billboard, which powered a school kitchen feeding 1100 undernourished children each day.

Since arriving in Australia he has lead the creative departments at 303 Sydney, GPY&R Sydney and Host. Whilst at GPY&R Sydney the agency was judged Australia’s most Effective Agency at The Australian Effie Awards for its work on ‘Vinnies Signed Finds’ for St Vincent de Paul Society. The campaign reversed a retail trend, driving 9.5% growth, almost four times the average growth in retail at that time. The campaign also received Gold at AWARD, Effies and ADMA.

Announcements about Watt’s next move as well as Host’s plans to replace him are expected in the new year.