Bastion Shine Makes 6 Senior Leadership Hires in NZ

Australasia’s largest independent integrated agency, Bastion Shine, has appointed six senior leaders in Wellington, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to delivering world-class strategy, advertising, communications, social and design, digital, media, and client service in the capital.

Commencing early 2026, Fleur Head will assume leadership of the Wellington team, and will be joined by Anna Gunnell, Damian Galvin, Alicia Tutty, Matt Saunders, and Kate Miller who will commence in senior roles across strategy, creative, client leadership and government relations. Collectively, this group brings extensive experience with some of New Zealand’s most significant government, corporate and consumer clients.

Bastion Shine NZ CEO Toby Sellers says the new hires represent a major step in Bastion Shine’s growth story.

“This is a landmark moment for Bastion Shine," Toby said.

"As Australasia’s largest independent agency group, we’re proud to be investing in Wellington, the heart of government and home to some of Aotearoa’s most iconic businesses. Welcoming such a talented and diverse leadership group reflects our commitment to delivering world-class creativity and strategy in the capital. The unique mix of public purpose and commercial creativity makes Wellington a perfect fit for our next phase of growth.”

This investment represents a major step forward in expanding our Wellington capability and reflects our ongoing ambition to deliver greater strategic, creative and advisory depth for clients across both the public and private sectors. It builds on the strong foundation established under Sally Hooper’s leadership.

As part of this growth, Sally will move into the role of chief commercial officer, where she will leverage her extensive agency and consultancy experience to connect and grow Bastion Shine’s full suite of capabilities across New Zealand.

Sally said that clients and customers expect connected, integrated thinking to navigate complex challenges.

“My focus will be to connect Bastion’s expertise nationwide, especially our growing digital practice," she said.

"Bringing together the best minds with the agility to help organisations navigate complex communication challenges, whether they’re public sector agencies, corporates, or emerging innovators. From major government projects to brand transformation work, our goal is to create clarity, confidence and measurable outcomes for the organisations shaping New Zealand’s future.”

The announcement follows Bastion Group’s acquisition of Catch Design in September 2024, bringing a team of 25 strategists, designers, producers and engineers into the fold. Catch has quickly established itself as a leading force in digital strategy, creativity, creative technology, martech and experience design.

Toby added, “With the agility of being an independent, ability to think locally, a strengthened leadership team and expanded expertise on the ground and our Catch Design acquisition, Bastion Shine is better positioned than ever to deliver integrated solutions that put people, brands and organisations in a position of strength and reinforce Bastion Shine’s national presence."

Bastion Shine is an approved provider on the All of Government Creative and Media Services panel, including Creative Services.