R/GA Sydney executive creative director, Hamish Stewart, is leaving the agency. Former TBWA\Sydney deputy executive creative director Craig Brooks will replace him. He will work beside co-executive creative director, Rob Chalmers.

Rebecca Bezzina, vice president & managing director, commented, “For three and a half years, Hamish’s creative leadership has been an anchor for R/GA Sydney and helped us evolve into a globally awarded agency. He’s been instrumental in our success and the pride we feel in our work. His integrity, warmth and craftsmanship will be very missed.”

Stewart added, “It’s been fantastic to have been part of the growth of R/GA Sydney, now an agency 90 people strong, with a thriving client roster and a body of work I’m extremely proud of. I’ve always been interested in the intersection of technology, data and storytelling. But after three-and-a-half years, it’s time to pursue those interests elsewhere. I look forward to sharing my plans soon.”

Hamish Stewart

Brooks joined Tequila Sydney in 2007 from London, as a senior art director. He became creative director of Whybin\TBWA in 2014 and deputy executive creative director of TBWA\Sydney in 2016 and worked on Apple, Foxtel, Tourism New Zealand, David Jones, NRMA & M.J. Bale. He also collected numerous Cannes Lions, Spikes, One Show, D&AD and AWARD awards and helped to steer TBWA\ to 18 Agency Of The Year titles.

Craig Brooks

Bob Mackintosh, vice president & executive creative director, R/GA APAC, commented, “Craig is the epitome of what modern creative leadership should be – holistic in his outlook, unconventional in approach and, above all, a champion of great work. He’s a great talent and we’re excited to have him at the helm.”

Brooks stated, “R/GA is the most forward-thinking, connected network in the world, and Bob and Becs have ignited an incredibly positive momentum in Sydney which makes this unquestionably the right place to be at absolutely the right time. I’m itching to get started.”