Saatchi & Saatchi names Leif Stromnes Chief Strategy Officer for ANZ

Leif Stromnes will commence the role in January 2026

e4m by e4m Staff
Published: Nov 21, 2025 10:23 AM  | 1 min read
Leif Stromnes
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  • Leif Stromnes has been appointed as the new Chief Strategy Officer for Saatchi & Saatchi in Australia and New Zealand, effective January 2026.
  • Stromnes announced his new role on LinkedIn, expressing confidence in his decision to join the agency.
  • In his position, he will oversee strategy teams in Sydney and Melbourne, collaborating with chief creative officers on strategic direction and communications planning, including the agency's use of AI.
  • Stromnes brings over 30 years of experience, having spent 25 years at DDB Group Australia and previously held senior roles at TBWA\Worldwide and Ogilvy in South Africa.

Saatchi & Saatchi has appointed Leif Stromnes as its new Chief Strategy Officer for Australia and New Zealand, with his tenure beginning in January 2026.

Stromnes announced the move on LinkedIn, saying, “Joining a new business is always daunting, but the way Saatchi & Saatchi have made me feel through this process confirms I’ve come to the right place.”

In his new role, Stromnes will guide the strategy teams in Sydney and Melbourne. He will work closely with chief creative officers Mandie van der Merwe and Avish Gordhan, overseeing strategic direction, communications planning and the agency’s developing use of AI.

The appointment marks a new chapter in a career that spans more than three decades. Stromnes spent 25 years at DDB Group Australia before leaving in July. He joined DDB in 1999 after moving from South Africa, where he held senior positions at TBWA\Worldwide and Ogilvy.

Published On: Nov 21, 2025 10:23 AM