Essence promotes Ali Reed to MD

Essence has named Ali Reed as its new UK managing director after close to two years with the GroupM agency.

Reed joined Essence in 2018 as SVP head of client services, following five years at rival agency OMD and a brief stint client-side at Full Tilt Poker.

In her 20 year career, Reed has worked on brands including Disney, Hasbro, Three and Mazda.

In her new role, she will support EMEA CEO Tim Irwin in growing the UK business, whilst overseeing all client relationships, new business and marketing, as well as continuing to develop initiatives to drive diversity and inclusion.

“Ali is a big part of the future of the business and our industry. She has made a significant contribution to the success of Essence EMEA over the past 18 months, so this promotion is hugely well-deserved and is recognition of her dedication to both our clients and the business,” Irwin said.

“Her passion for people and growth is infectious and as Managing Director, she will be a driving force for more great achievements in 2020 and beyond”.