M+C Saatchi Appoints Simon Wassef Group Chief Strategy Officer

M+C Saatchi Group ANZ has appointed Simon Wassef to the newly created role of group chief strategy officer, adding further momentum to the agency’s leadership and strategic direction.

An industry-leading strategist with extensive experience leading teams across Australia, Europe, the UK and the US, Simon brings a deep understanding of brand, experience and innovation to the role, reinforcing M+C Saatchi’s cultural power proposition.

Simon joins after recently resigning from Clemenger BBDO, where he spent two years as chief strategy and experience officer, developing effective, integrated platforms for HCF, Great Northern Brewing Company, Solo Energy, Hard Rated, Carlton Dry, MYER, Samsung, the TAC, and the Federal Government.

He was part of the team that added Kmart, COLORBOND, L’Oreal, and NSW Police Force to the agency and oversaw Clemenger’s double-gold turn at the 2025 Effies.

A Grand Effie and AFR 'Most Innovative Companies' winner, Simon has held senior strategy roles at AKQA London and Sydney, TBWA\Chiat\Day Los Angeles, Droga5 Sydney, and R/GA London.

Simon is committed to making advertising a more inclusive industry. He is a member of the ACA’s 'CREATE SPACE' steerco, and teaches AdSchool’s advanced strategy course. As group chief strategy officer, Simon will lead M+C Saatchi’s strategic vision and capability across Australia and New Zealand, ensuring the group drives meaningful impact for clients.

Simon said, “I build teams and capabilities for modern businesses who want to win. M+C is the best place to build: grown up, in control of its destiny, and 100% focused on client success. And Dani and Emma are the best people to build with. I’m really excited.”

His appointment rounds out M+C Saatchi’s leadership team in Australia and New Zealand, under chief executive officer Dani Bassil. Simon will work closely with the leadership team, including recently appointed group chief creative officer Emma Robbins, managing director Tanya Vragalis, chief marketing officer Anita Zanesco, managing partner, Passions and PR, Rhian Mason, and managing director M+C Saatchi consulting and re, Ben Harrison.

It also follows several recent hires with some of the best in the business joining M+C, including Topher Jones as client experience director, Louise Rutherford as client partner, and Jeremy Hogg as national executive creative director, further strengthening the group’s creative and strategic offering.

Dani, M+C Saatchi Group ANZ CEO, said, “I’m thrilled to have Simon join us. He brings a rare mix of intelligence, empathy and creative drive that will add so much to our leadership team and our clients’ businesses.”

Simon will officially commence his role in the new year.