CHICAGO (AdAge.com) -- Jack Klues, the CEO of Starcom MediaVest Group, will now oversee all of Publicis Groupe?s media networks.
Jack Klues, the CEO of Starcom MediaVest Group, will now oversee all of Publicis Groupe?s media networks. |
Mr. Klues, 50, was named chairman of Publicis Groupe Media, which was formed in 2004 to oversee and develop the the holding company?s media networks. The role gives him oversight of ZenithOptimedia as well as Starcom MediaVest. He succeeds Roger Haupt, former president and chief operating officer of Publicis who retired.
In addition, Rennetta McCann, previously CEO of Starcom Mediavest, the Americas, has been promoted to CEO of Starcom MediaVest. Steve King continues as CEO of ZenithOptimedia.
Long-planned succession
Mr. Klues' promotion is part of a long-planned succession. He was long tipped for a big role within Publicis. Last year's promotion of Renetta McCann to CEO of Starcom Mediavest, the Americas, from CEO of Starcom North America was seen as paving the way for Mr. Klues to move on.
?Jack will now be able to leverage the power of SMG and ZenithOptimedia to develop strategies which further enhance our competitive advantage. PGM has unique strengths -- which explain the terrific development and growth of our media operations,? Publicis CEO Maurice Levy said in a release. ?The new appointments are intended to provide an even stronger offering for all the clients of SMG and ZenithOptmedia.?
Possible acquisitions
Mr. Klues will be charged with looking for ways to leverage the strengths of both networks around the globe, including likely acquisitions. Publicis expressed interest in acquiring Aegis to shore up its European presence but withdrew -- at least for now.
ZenithOptimedia handles accounts including Toyota, General Mills and Nestle. Starcom MediaVest's roster includes SABMiller, Kellogg and General Motors.