Gabriel Schmitt has become global chief creative officer of Grey Group, joining from FCB New York where he was co-chief creative officer. He will report to global chief executive officer, Laura Maness and replaces Javier Campopiano, who was appointed global chief creative officer of McCann Worldgroup and McCann a week ago. Schmitt will be based in New York and will work closely with Thiago Cruz, who was recently appointed chief creative officer of Grey New York.

Schmitt spent nearly ten years at FCB New York and four at FCB Chicago. At FCB, he led campaigns such as Whopper Detour, Michelob Ultra Courtside, Contract for Change and McEnroe vs McEnroe that helped the agency to surge up the ladder with four consecutive Cannes Lions North America Network the Year wins.

Maness commented, “I’ve been on the hunt for a world-class creative partner that shares my ambition, values, and desire to lead this iconic creative company that shapes culture and enriches people’s lives. Grey has a 105-year track record and reputation for creative excellence and trusted client relationships that are 3x the industry norm. With Gab by my side, I am more confident than ever in our future. This is the beginning of a new era of creativity for Grey, our clients, and our industry.

“Gabriel is a brilliant creative mind, coupled with transformational business acumen and a genuine instinct for partnership. Under his stewardship I am confident Grey will enter its next golden era of creativity, innovation and impact.”

Schmitt stated, “Grey is built on the belief that fame and effectiveness are not mutually exclusive; quite the opposite, as one feeds the other. This is 100% what I believe and have always worked towards. I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to lead this amazing group of people and I look forward to shaping an environment that allows us and our clients to do the best work of our careers.”