Leo Burnett Worldwide executive chairman and CCO to exit

Publicis Groupe’s Leo Burnett Worldwide Executive Chairman and Global Chief Creative Officer Mark Tutssel is planning to retire at the end of June. He'll work with Publicis Groupe CCO Nick Law and the Leo Burnett global creative council to ensure a smooth transition and “determine what makes the most sense for the global network going forward” in terms of his potential replacement, a spokesperson for the agency told Ad Age. Tutssel's "impact on the industry and his leadership of one of the world’s great creative agencies cannot be overstated," Law said in a statement. "It will be a privilege to spend the coming months with him making sure that we extend and build on his vision.” A 34-year veteran of Leo Burnett, Tutssel has won more than 600 Cannes Lions, including nine Grand Prix, three Titanium Lions and four Glass Lions. Other awards include the first D&AD White Pencil and six Clio Grand Prix. He's led the development of campaigns such as the WWF’s “Earth Hour” efforts, Samsung’s VR promotional spot “Ostrich” and John West’s “Bear Fight.” Tutssel has been leading Leo Burnett’s creative vision since 2006, when he was named global chief creative officer. In 2018, he took on the additional title of worldwide executive chairman—a move that the agency said at the time made him the first creative leader of Leo Burnett since the legendary namesake founder himself. “Over the last 13 years, it has been a tremendous honor and responsibility to lead Leo Burnett Worldwide creatively,” Tutssel said in a statement. “The industry is experiencing unprecedented change, and it seems like the right moment to turn the page to the next chapter of my life. I will leave Leo Burnett with the greatest pride and love for its people and their commitment to the power of creativity. It has fueled me as well as many fortunate brands over the years, and I am grateful.” “I want to thank Mark for his commitment to Leo Burnett’s people and creative excellence,” Publicis Groupe chairman and CEO Arthur Sadoun added in a statement. “His passion and ambition in creativity is an inspiration to all of us in Publicis Groupe. We wish him all the best.”

Leo Burnett Worldwide executive chairman and CCO to exit

Featured Stories