VML has appointed Ryan McManus as UK Chief Creative Officer (CCO) in a key post merger move.
He will report directly to UK CEO Pip Hulbert global chief creative officer Debbi Vandeven.
His previous roles include working as chief creative officer for North America, where he led for WPP’s client Ford, as well as leading on Virgin Voyage, Miami Tourism and BIC.
During his time there, McManus created award-winning work including a multi-award-winning Blue Cruise campaign, and Jen AI (an AI version of Jennifer Lopez) for Virgin Voyages.
Prior to that, he was CCO at VMLY&R South Africa for five years, where he oversaw the merger of VML and Y&R to become a full-service integrated agency.
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He has won numerous awards including Gold Cannes Lions, D&AD, One Show and more.
“To me, the UK is a candy store of incredible future-facing skills that can truly serve the bespoke needs of our clients. I can’t wait to be a part of the alchemy and guide the creative department to make outstanding work that drives meaningful change. London, here I come!”, McManus said, talking about his new role.
VML UK CMO Pip Hulbert added: “I had the pleasure to meet a lot of people on my search for this role, but for me, Ryan stood out as a new breed of creative leader. He’s truly unique, having a diverse background and in-depth knowledge across AI and technology.”
“He doesn’t fit a mould. Ryan is one of the few people who has the capability to define a new era of creative heights. He comes bursting with energy and enthusiasm for the work and his entrepreneurial spirt is infectious. Exciting times ahead,” she continued.
VML global CCO Debbi Vandeven described McManus’ arrival as coming at comes at “a pivotal time” ahead of the UK’s first Grand Prix in the Clios.
