Leith Celebrates 4 Promotions Across Client Services, Production and Strategy

​Leith has revealed four promotions across the agency, strengthening its client leadership, production craft and strategic capability as it continues to deliver work that cuts through culture.

The promotions come during a period of strong momentum for the agency, with recent wins including Bank of Scotland and Tennent’s, alongside continued growth across long‑standing partnerships.

In client services, Simon Burford has been promoted to group account director, recognising the impact he’s had across some of Leith’s most iconic accounts. Since joining the agency, Simon has helped steer standout work for Glen’s, Irn‑Bru and NTS, building trusted relationships that have shaped long‑term creative success.

Simon Burford said, “I was really touched by the lovely messages from colleagues and clients alike when I received this promotion, and I'm excited for the new role and everything it brings.”

Executive partner, Ed Brooke, added, “It shows the measure of Simon that all his peers at Leith and his clients were over the moon with the news of his promotion. He builds incredibly strong and long‑lasting relationships through a powerful combination of decency, talent and care. It’s no wonder those relationships lead to standout work for every brand he touches.”

Also in client services, Nikki Rayner has been promoted to account director. Nikki has played a key role in delivering some of Leith’s most high‑profile campaigns, including Lovehoney’s ‘Feel the Lovehoney’ brand platform, Sanofi’s ‘Sleepy Parents’ campaign for a second year running, and EFPIA’s Europe’s Choice. She also helped lead a successful 2025 Leith Awards.

Nikki Rayner said, “I’m absolutely delighted to be stepping into the account director role. It’s been such a rewarding journey at Leith, and this feels like a real milestone. I’m lucky to work alongside such talented people and with clients who genuinely push us to do our best work. I can’t wait to take on more responsibility and keep delivering work we’re all proud of.”

Health partner, Brian Coane said, “Nikki's promotion to account director is well-deserved recognition of her exceptional contributions across the board. She has consistently delivered creative projects with flawless execution, helped us win new business and been a leader in shaping Leith's culture through her work on our internal awards and social initiatives. We're excited to see her take on this new role.”

In production, Sarah Kenny has been promoted to senior producer, following a series of projects that showcased her craft, including a recent campaign for Children’s Hospice Association Scotland, a piece of work she describes as particularly meaningful.

Sarah Kenny said, “Throughout my time at Leith, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects that I’ve been really proud to be part of… Being surrounded by genuinely great people makes the work even more enjoyable, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

Head of production, Neil Williams, Sarah’s line manager, said, “I’m so happy to see Sarah promoted. Her hard work and dedication set a high bar. She’s taken on large line productions, has brilliant post‑production knowledge and is extremely commercially aware. Everyone loves working with Skenny - what a legend.”

Leith has also welcomed April Ward into a full‑time role as social executive in strategy. April joined the agency through the Unlocked Internships Programme and was kept on after delivering outstanding work across her placement.

April Ward said, “At Leith I’ve always been met with a supportive environment that’s allowed me to progress and improve. I couldn’t have been happier when I found out about my new role - buzzed to have more time at Leith!”

Social strategist, Emma Traynor, added, “It was a no‑brainer to promote April. She brings determination, enthusiasm and attention to detail to every task. I’m very proud of all she’s achieved in these short months and excited to see everything she does next.”