Media agency Wavemaker has appointed Dani Saadu to the newly-created position of head of people and culture. He joins from his role as director of people and culture at healthcare recruitment firm Hunter Healthcare.
Saadu will now be responsible for overseeing Wavemaker’s internal and external cultural make-up. He will work closely with the WPP-owned firm’s executive committee and will be reporting to chief operating officer Katie Lee.
His new remit will also include building the agency’s UK talent whilst collaborating with Wavemaker Global and GroupM UK leadership teams to create a more inclusive culture across the board.
“We are nothing without our people, so developing and retaining our talent has been a core focus for the leadership team. We have been working hard to build a strategy from entry level to our most senior talent. Dani’s appointment is pivotal in how we remain progressive in our approach to DEI, to learning and development and to building an agency culture where everyone can thrive and belong,” Lee said.
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“I was lucky enough to meet some incredible candidates but it is Dani’s combination of talent, infectious energy and enthusiasm that leaves me in no doubt that he will push us and the agency to be the best we can be.”
Working with Wavemaker’s clients, Saadu will additionally look to develop a better understanding for their “talent priorities”, which will involve participation in teams during pitches with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
Saadu added:”I was attracted to Wavemaker because of its obvious ambition and commitment to improving the employee experience. A testament to this commitment is how holistic and integrated this position is with the ability to support every aspect of the agency – whether Wavemaker team or client.
“In my opinion, every industry needs this approach to talent. After all, we are all ambassadors of people and culture. I’m looking forward to working with the team to evolve and enrich our working culture. We have an exciting journey ahead.”
