James Hannan has been named chief operating officer at IPMG - the Hannan family business that’s the largest privately owned marketing communications group in Australia.
The move is one of four major appointments as IPMG continues to expand its marketing operation. "With the continuing growth and evolution of our group, these appointments will provide the structure to further enhance our ability to empower brands to connect," said IPMG CEO Kevin Slaven.
James Hannan, fifth generation of the Hannan family, sole owners of the 100% Australian-owned group, has been appointed COO in a role that has been expanded to cover all operating aspects of IPMG. Hannon has worked in various roles in the business since 2003.
“As a result of his diverse experience across the group both in Australia and in New York, James has the unique ability to manage multi disciplinary projects and to navigate complex challenges,” said a company press release. “In his role as COO of IPMG, James is dedicated to ensuring that a strong sense of unity resonates within the businesses of the group and to perpetuate the family values that the Hannans have held so dear since the inception of their business in the late 1800's.”
Kristie Atkins, a sales and marketing director, commences at IPMG in the newly created role of chief commercial officer at the end of September.
Atkins managed high profile brands through her most recent role as director of sales at Amalgamated Holdings Limited (AHL), which owns leading brands including Event Cinemas, Greater Union, Thredbo and Sydney's Majestic State Theatre.
“With her unique background and career experience, Kristie boasts an enviable combination of sales, marketing, business development, communications, PR, event management and sponsorship skills,” said the company.
Benoit Droulez has been appointed chief strategy officer IPMG to oversee all aspects of the group's strategy with a focus on ‘sustained revenue growth in an evolving marketing landscape.’
Benoit has been with IPMG for the past eight years, holding multiple leadership roles within group portfolio companies, both in Australia and in Europe.
Ben Shipley has been appointed managing director of Spectrum Group, IPMG's integrated communications agency which incorporates Spectrum Communications Sydney and Singapore, Max Australia and Magnetic Content.
“Ben is keen to demonstrate how Spectrum Group can build on existing strengths to deliver integrated communications that have a measurable impact on businesses and their brands,” said IPMG.
Prior to joining Spectrum, Shipley spent six years with Hill+Knowlton Strategies and was part of the PR Lions Jury at the recent Festival of Creativity in Cannes.
"On behalf of our shareholders, board and all staff, I congratulate Kristie, Benoit, James and Ben on their new roles,” said Slaven. “I look forward to working with each of them as IPMG continues the execution of its growth strategy and expansion into new areas of marketing services to enable our customers' brands to better engage with their audiences.”