Manila, 28th April 2015 – Omnicom Media Group has announced a change in leadership in one of their rapidly growing markets in Asia Pacific – The Philippines. Nicanor Gabunada Jr. (Nic), has stepped down from his position as Omnicom Media Group’s current CEO, to pursue another opportunity in the industry. He will be replaced by Mary Buenaventura effective May 1.

In her new role, Mary is charged with the leadership of all Omnicom Media Group assets in Philippines, working alongside the senior management team and leads for OMD, PHD and M2M.
Mary will report to Jasmin Sohrabji, CEO for Omnicom Media Group, SEA and India.

Commenting on the appointment, Jasmin Sohrabji, CEO for Omnicom Media Group SEA and India, said, “Mary brings a wealth of experience to our network. She is a stellar talent with strengths and accomplishments in a wide range of disciplines. Mary’s comprehensive knowledge of the local market coupled with her knack of delivering effective results will help in strengthening Omnicom Media Group’s capabilities and ensure that our momentum in this market is accelerated. I am delighted to welcome her to the network.”

On outgoing CEO, Nicanor Gabunada Jr.(Nic), Jasmin Sohrabji said, “Nic has driven 3 years of continued growth and stability. Our overall offering and value proposition in the Philippines is much stronger across all our brands, now. We are thankful for his leadership and wish him the best for his next challenge.”

Mary joins Omnicom Media Group from Y&R Philippines, where she held the post of CEO/President for the last 13 years. Mary set-up Y&R Philippines’ in-house integrated marketing communications capabilities, the first for Y&R’s Asian network and Wunderman – WPP’s digital and CRM agency. She also spearheaded agency service innovations, like digital and interactive solutions, CRM, shopper marketing, activation to name a few.

“The Philippines represents a very important growth market for us in South East Asia. Mary’s proven track record in driving growth and building strong cultures is exactly the type of leadership we need right now,” said Cheuk Chiang, CEO, Asia Pacific, Omnicom Media Group.

Commenting on her new role, Mary said, “It’s an exciting time to be in the media industry. I am looking forward to leading Omnicom Media Group in the Philippines by staying committed to the organisation’s vision and objective to be the very best across all of our operations.”