BBDO Chicago office leader exits

Jeff Adkins, president and CEO of Chicago-based Energy BBDO is leaving the agency, ending a lengthy career at the Omnicom shop. His exit means there are now vacancies atop BBDO’s Chicago and New York offices. Nancy Reyes, who was named BBDO’s CEO of the Americas in October after serving as CEO of TBWA\Chiat\Day New York, confirmed the departure in a statement to Ad Age. “The entire BBDO network is grateful to Jeff for his dedication and leadership, and the significant impact he has had on Energy BBDO. 22 years of committed service is no small feat,” she stated. BBDO did not confirm replacement plans, including the possibility of consolidating New York and Chicago office leadership. Reyes only indicated that the agency would detail its next steps soon. Adkins’ departure comes five months after BBDO New York changed leadership, with President and CEO Kirsten Flanik exiting after seven years in the position and 18 years with the agency. Reyes has been overseeing the office while it looks for a replacement. Check out the latest Ad Age events and award programs Energy BBDO, which employs more than 150 people according to its website, handles accounts such as Mars Wrigley, Champion, Bayer, The General and Brown-Forman brands (Jack Daniel’s). “As great leaders do, Jeff has built a solid and talented bench alongside him including CCO Josh Gross and MD Daale Carter that I’ve gotten to know over the last year and am confident will carry on the great work and continue to drive the agency forward,” Reyes stated. “I’m quite energized by the people and work coming out of Energy BBDO. They continue to be a jewel in the BBDO network, and I look forward to helping shape the next chapter. We will have more to share on that very soon.” Adkins joined Energy BBDO in 2002 from EuroRSCG (now called Havas). He has led the office since 2020, when he took over from Tonise Paul, who retired after a long career at the agency. Adkins, in a statement to Ad Age said: “I’ve been considering taking on a new adventure for a while, and now is the right time. The changes in the industry offer a lot of opportunities and fresh challenges I’m excited to explore. I’m grateful for a great run at Energy BBDO, and I’ll be rooting for the team as they continue to create amazing work.”

BBDO Chicago office leader exits

Featured Stories