Havas Media Group Names Greg Walsh as CEO, North America

Havas Media Group (HMG) announced today the appointment of Greg Walsh as its new chief executive officer (CEO) of North America. Previously Havas Media North America’s chief operations officer (COO) and global chief commercial officer, Greg will continue to work closely with the NA leadership team to drive growth and bring new prospects and clients across the US and Canada. He will report to global CEO Peter Mears, who took on the additional responsibility of overseeing North America in January 2021, following Colin Kinsella’s departure.

In his new role, Greg will partner with Peter and the North American leadership team to further refine HMG’s client focus, product and offering. His remit will include continuing to deliver on the agency’s mission of making a meaningful difference to brands, businesses, and consumers. He will maintain the position of COO as well.

“An experienced and accomplished leader, Greg has led operations for HMG, as well as its global commercial strategy, for over two years, driving strong results. His in-depth knowledge of the agency, the North American market and its clients will allow for a seamless transition,” said Peter. “Greg’s unique background will allow him to approach Agency leadership, organisation, and client service in a way that improves client delivery and motivates employees. We’re excited to see how Greg continues to elevate HMG’s North American presence as we head into 2022.”  

Greg has over 20 years of experience in financial, operational, and commercial leadership. His commercial mindset coupled with his ability to lead with confidence and humility has allowed him to drive top-line growth and forge solid relationships internally and with clients. Greg joined HMG as global chief commercial Ooficer in June 2019, to lead the then newly created global commercial team, and added North America chief operating officer responsibilities to his remit in January 2021.

Alongside his team, he has focused on elevating the business acumen of the organisation, accelerating the agency’s growth and success, and re-imagining the marketing, structure, and delivery of current products and services, including new trading models. Prior to joining Havas Media Group, Greg served as global president of Orion Worldwide, IPG's global principle buying and bartering company; he also held regional and global CFO and COO roles at IPG.

“I’m excited and honoured to serve as HMG’s CEO, North America moving forward. Since joining in 2019, I’ve seen first-hand how the agency drives best-in-class results for its clients by helping brands identify and show up across the most meaningful media,” said Greg. “I look forward to collaborating with the team and our clients to ensure HMG continues creating these impactful experiences for consumers across North America.” 

Greg begins in his new role immediately.