Stef Calcraft exits Dentsu Aegis, succeeded by Nick Waters

Less than a year into the role, Stef Calcraft has stepped down as executive chairman for Dentsu Aegis UK and Ireland.

The Mother co-founder took up the newly-created position in January, taking on the responsibilities of former UK and Ireland CEO Tracy De Groose, who left after four years in the role.

Calcraft will be succeeded by Nick Waters, currently CEO of Asia Pacific, who will begin transitioning into the role immediately. Waters has been regional CEO of APAC for nine years, prior to which he was chief executive EMEA at Mindshare.

Giulio Malegori, Dentsu Aegis chief executive EMEA said: “We thank Stef for his contribution – he leaves the UK business on a strong footing, with a dynamic new leadership team in place.

“Nick has a strong track record of successfully leading a complex, diverse region for Dentsu Aegis Network and will help to set up the UK business for the future providing continuity for our clients, our people and the business, by assuming the executive chairman role.”

The advertising network has already seen a number of senior departures this year, as CEO Jerry Buhlmann stepped down last month and 360i’s European chief, James Townsend, left the agency in October.

Dentsu Aegis Network also shook up its UK and Ireland leadership team under Calcraft’s guidance last month, with two new hires and three promotions.