David Johnson joins IPG Mediabrands’ Initiative China as chief strategy officer based in Shanghai

IPG Mediabrands’s Initiative China has appointed David Johnson as Chief Strategy Officer.

A veteran in strategic planning, digital, content and research, Johnson (pictured) brings 20 years’ experience as a strategist in both creative and media agencies across Europe, China, North & SE Asia, Africa and ME, and has won multiple industry awards including a Cannes Gold Lion and three Effies.

Most recently, Johnson was the Head of Strategy, ASEAN & Head of Connections Planning of Mindshare APAC. Prior to that, he was the Head of Strategy of Mindshare China, and has held senior positions at Mindshare Global, OMD, BBDO and Proximity, working with multiple brands including Unilever, P&G, Mercedes-Benz, PBG, Frito Lay, Total and Bayer.

As Chief Strategy Officer Johnson will lead Initiative China’s strategic offering, driving organic growth with existing clients and developing a best in class strategy team.

Johnson commented, “I am absolutely thrilled to be joining a great team at Initiative. We are ideally positioned for growth and innovation – we have all the capabilities and resources of a large full-service agency whilst still being nimble enough to pivot and respond to every change in the China market. Today we are a young team absolutely focused on the future, free of any legacy, and that is very exciting to be part of.”

Tom Wan, CEO of IPG Mediabrands China commented, “We are delighted to have David on board. David has a wealth of experience as a strategist with a multi-cultural working background, and is perfectly placed to fuel strategic business value to our clients, helping brands to connect with their audience through culture”.

Johnson will be based in Shanghai and his appointment is effective immediately.