Jnr., the Trans-Tasman agency launched by John Marshall and Ryan O’Connell eighteen months ago, has lured Jenny Mak from her role as creative partner at DDB Sydney. She becomes ECD and partner of the agency completing its management trio. Marshall is ex-Special New Zealand general manager John Marshall, and O’Connell is ex-Ogilvy Australia chief strategy officer. The agency has been growing strongly since birth, gaining a string of high-profile client wins and campaign launches across Australia and New Zealand, with more to come.

Mak brings with her a reputation not just for breakthrough creative, but for forging deep client partnerships that deliver real impact. She has led some of Australia’s most high-profile clients and campaigns in recent years for Volkswagen and Westpac, and earlier in her career was behind acclaimed work for Coca-Cola Australia, Huggies, U by Kotex and Transport for NSW – campaigns awarded for both creativity and effectiveness. Before she joined DDB Sydney in 2021, she spent nearly a decade at Ogilvy Sydney, rising through the ranks from senior copywriter to group creative director. She has also held roles at Innocean Worldwide and Grey, and has freelanced at BWM, Havas Worldwide and The Campaign Palace in Sydney and Melbourne.

John Marshall commented, “JMak’s arrival marks a pivotal moment for our agency. Ryan and I are thrilled to welcome a creative leader of her calibre and vision to the business. Her passion, insight, and proven track record will elevate our work and accelerate the next chapter of our growth. She brings the experience of a senior, with the energy and curiosity of a junior. Which is exactly what jnr. stands for.”

Ryan O’Connell added, “I’m a bit annoyed I’m no longer the best basketballer in the agency, but I’ll get over it. JMak is one of the most talented, kind, and mature creative leaders out there, and we’re incredibly lucky to have her join us. The industry doesn’t have enough leaders like her, so this is a real win for jnr.”

Jenny Mak stated, “This agency’s fearless spirit, commitment to creativity, and collaborative culture perfectly align with my values. Together, we’ll push creative boundaries, deliver work that works, and foster a workplace where diverse voices and ideas thrive. I’m proud to play a foundational role in shaping an agency that’s as ambitious about culture and inclusivity as it is about business success.”

Mak will remain based in Sydney and officially commences with jnr. next month.

Cover image l-r: John Marshall, Jenny Mak, Ryan O’Connell