Dentsu Aegis names Stef Calcraft as UK&I executive chairman

Dentsu Aegis Network has appointed Mother co-founder Stef Calcraft as executive chairman of the UK and Ireland.

While it is a newly-created role, Calcraft is filling the shoes of former UK and Ireland CEO, Tracy De Groose, who announced she was stepping down earlier this month, after four years at the helm.

Giulio Malegori, CEO, Dentsu Aegis EMEA, who Calcraft will report to, said: “The UK is the biggest market across EMEA and the third biggest market for our business and the appointment of Stef is pivotal to drive the UK&I growth agenda.

“Stef brings an incredible track record for delivery, he will lead the transformation of the UK&I business through data driven solutions for our clients, designed to succeed in the digital economy.”

Calcraft, who will take up his new role in January 2018, said: “We are entering a uniquely exciting new age for brands where value creation through direct audience building will only be limited by our collective imagination, inventiveness and intimacy with the world around us. Those that lean forward will thrive like never before.

“The vision, ambition and clarity of purpose of Dentsu Aegis is defining in its simplicity and positivity, which attracted me immediately. With the breadth of talent and resource singularly focussed on creating positive change, I am delighted to be joining the team.”