Saatchis NZ Promotes Annabel Rees To GM – Clients

Saatchi & Saatchi New Zealand has promoted GM Annabel Rees to general manager -- clients to lead client services in an expanded remit.

With experience in agencies in the UK and New Zealand, including with TBWA, Special, Colenso BBDO, and DDB, Annabel has developed high-performing teams and valued client relationships for Saatchi & Saatchi since 2021, first as group business director.

Annabel told LBB she is “thrilled” to broaden her responsibilities at the agency she loves, which include leading client services, setting strategic standards, and impacting commercial performance with client growth.

“I feel lucky to work with such a talented, great bunch of people, along with our brilliant client partners, and I’m pumped to get started,” Annabel said.

“The agency has really strong momentum right now, and I’m keen to keep that energy going. I hope to bring a forward-looking perspective that helps shape our next chapter, both in terms of our vision and how we work.

“I am also passionate about growing our amazing talent and creating a culture where our people can do their best work.”

In announcing the appointment, the agency lauded Annabel’s “reputation across the industry for her vision and capability”. CEO Mark Cochrane added the move is a testament to the trust she already earned from the business.

“Annabel is a standout leader whose influence is felt across every part of the business,” Mark said.

“Her commitment to our clients, her ability to build deep and trusted relationships and her unwavering drive to deliver transformative thinking and culturally led creativity make her an invaluable part of our growth story.

“This promotion reflects not only her impact to date, but the even greater role she will play in shaping the next chapter of Saatchi & Saatchi NZ.”

Annabel said she is proud of the agency’s work over the past 12 months, which includes creative work for clients including Toyota, Westpac NZ, and KiwiPlates. She believes 2026 will be an “exciting year” for Saatchi & Saatchi, which also recently moved into a new office in Auckland after 35 years in the previous space.

“Now it’s about continuing to lift the bar and pushing things even further,” Annabel said.

“The Saatchi ‘Nothing is Impossible’ spirit has never felt stronger, and this year is about dialling it up, bringing together our connected capabilities and tools to deliver creative ideas that build fame and drive growth for our clients.”