On the heels of a global restructure, AKQA has unveiled a new leadership team in the Americas.

Tesa Aragones, formerly president of North America, has been elevated to CEO of the region, a first for the agency. 

Meanwhile, Jabari Hearn, previously managing partner, steps into the role of chief marketing and growth officer in the Americas.

And Giles McCormack, a 16-year veteran of AKQA and former managing partner, has been appointed chief client officer, with a remit to strengthen client partnerships and optimize resources across the region.

“At AKQA, we are driven by an unrelenting ambition to shape what’s next. This exceptional team of visionary leaders embodies the spirit of creativity, innovation, and purpose that defines AKQA,” said Aragones in a statement.

Under the new structure, global chief creative officers Shu Hung and Diego Machado will oversee creative direction across the Americas, where they are based.

Andrew Missingham, previously executive director of consumer insights, has been promoted to chief data insights officer, while Katje Chiller, formerly head of people, becomes chief people officer. 

AKQA will announce an incoming global chief strategy officer and global chief technology officer this quarter.

Integration push

Under the new global structure, AKQA Americas, which comprises its North and South American offices, will operate as a unified region to facilitate collaboration both across the agency and parent WPP more broadly.

As part of the new go-to-market, Brazil-based AKQA Casa will operate as part of the Americas versus as a separate market, strengthening the region’s capabilities. Machado will focus on further integrating AKQA Casa within the Americas region.

The restructuring, following the departure of AKQA founder and CEO Ajaz Ahmed after 30 years at the helm, aims to simplify access to AKQA’s offering for clients, who are asking for integrated services and teams. 

“This new model ensures our teams are empowered to adapt to shifting market demands, foster innovation, and deliver lasting success for our clients,” added Aragones.