Maggie Malek, formerly the CEO of MMI, has been appointed president of North America, reporting to Simms. Malek has held a number of roles within MMI, leading the agency as CEO since 2019.

“CP+B earned a reputation as an industry disruptor with iconic campaigns that redefined what ‘creative’ looked like,” said Malek in a statement. “As the forces around us spark new technologies, channels and demand for integrated solutions, it’s invigorating to marry CP+B’s innovative creative spirit with complementary talent and capabilities across media, branded entertainment, content and creator marketing.”

Malek told Adweek that now is the first time in the past decade that there has been a significant investment in the infrastructure of Crispin that not only accelerates its growth but reclaims its prominence as one of the top creative shops.

“The Crispin network spans North America, London and Brazil, and we’ll continue to expand its footprint where we see opportunity,” added Malek.

Simms praised Malek’s ability to set a clear vision and drive it to fruition, along with caring for her people and a drive to deliver measurable impact and value for clients.

Rounding out the North American leadership team is Josh Braithwaite, chief creative officer for North America; Tom Sullivan, formerly CEO of Vitro and now chief growth officer for North America; Brendan Shields-Shimizu, formerly CEO of Observatory and now chief innovation officer for North America; and Laura Eder, formerly COO of MMI and now chief operating officer for North America.

At one time, CP+B was the creative agency leader, producing lauded work for clients including Mini, Domino’s, Hotels.com, Fruit of the Loom and Burger King, but has lost those key clients, most recently Hotels.com and Fruit of the Loom in 2021. When the agency came to Stagwell, the company committed to saving the agency and bringing it back to prominence, and this latest move appears to make good on that promise.

“CP+B is the original challenger brand and core to the fabric of Stagwell. I’ve said it before and will say it again: We believe in the CP+B brand, and with talented leaders like Brad and Maggie at the helm, I’m confident the future of CP+B is bright,” ​Stagwell chairman and CEO Mark Penn said in a statement.