ARK Agency, founded in June last year by Mat Goff, former joint chief executive of adam&eveDDB, and Mike Wilton, former managing director of Anomaly, is building its leadership tier. Xander Hart and Edward Usher join as creative partners; Hannah Needham steps into the role of production partner. The appointments are a significant milestone in the agency’s aim to redefine creativity for brands and break away from legacy agency structures. Unlike traditional agency models, ARK fosters a fluid and dynamic approach to creative disciplines, with the new leadership team spearheading both creative thinking and creative making.
Hart and Usher join from adam&eve/DDB where they have been creatives for just over five-and-a-half years. Their inventive work for The V&A, PlayStation, John Lewis, the International Paralympic Committee, BBC, and Virgin Media aligns with ARK Agency’s mission to pioneer a new type of commercial creativity shaped for the world today.
Mat Goff, co-founder, ARK Agency, commented, “Edward and Xander are a new breed of creative leaders. I’ve worked closely with them in the past and seen just how outstandingly talented they are. The way they think, the way they collaborate, the kind of ideas that excite them, and the level of craft they pour into their work make them the perfect Creative Partners for where ARK Agency is heading.”
Xander Hart stated, “We are thrilled to be joining the ARK team after their barnstorming first six months. We share the same creative ambition as well as a desire to challenge the conventions of how creativity is brought to life for brands. It’s an incredibly exciting mission, and we couldn’t be more excited to be part of it.”
Edward Usher added, “We’ve always aimed to make genuinely original, industry-leading work that stands out for its craft as well as its effectiveness, and ARK is without doubt the perfect place for us to do it. Mike and Mat are building something truly special here and we are chomping at the bit to get going.”
Hannah Needham brings a unique blend of leadership, innovation, and craft excellence shown in her work for PlayStation, Lionsgate, the International Paralympic Committee, The V&A and Eurostar. Hannah has already played a fundamental role in ARK’s first six months.
Mike Wilton, co-founder, ARK Agency, commented, “Hannah represents a new style of production expertise. Her relentless pursuit of excellence and craft is only matched by her versatility and leadership in forging new shapes of creative answers. She is an incredible asset to ARK’s leadership team.”
Hannah Needham added, “ARK is all about bold ideas and flawless execution, and I’m excited to help shape its future. The last six months have been an incredible journey, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
The responsibilities of the three leaders will extend beyond exceptional work, into nurturing fresh talent and ensuring the agency remains at the forefront of industry innovation. They will report directly to ARK’s co-founders. Hart and Usher will start work in their new roles on May 7, Needham’s appointment is effective immediately.
Cover image l-r: Edward Usher, Hannah Needham & Xander Hart
