FCB Bolsters Global Communications Team with Melanie Mitchem

FCB global chief communications officer Brandon Cooke today announced that the agency has brought on board Melanie Mitchem as SVP, director of global communications and PR.

“With all of the great momentum we have built over the last few years here, we were looking for a talent who could help take FCB to the next level and further promote our story in dynamic and unexpected ways,” said Cooke. “Melanie’s background spans creative and media agencies, consumer brands and nonprofits. Her impressive blend of experience and innovation sets her apart, but her tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit are what made her a perfect fit for us.”

Mitchem joins FCB from Columbia Business School, where she spearheaded thought leadership initiatives with tenured professors, developed branding events for the school’s centres and divisions, and led PR programs in support of the school’s 100th anniversary. Before that, she was an integral member of the IPG network, leading global communications at Mediabrands and Universal McCann (UM) – as EVP, global corporate communications director at both organisations – and also functioned as a key player in taking Mediabrands’ MAGNA brand global.

Prior to UM, Mitchem served in high-level communications roles at PHD Media and BBDO over a ten-year stretch. At PHD, she took on the position of first-ever communications director and founded the agency’s public relations practice, defining and implementing all brand positioning strategies – both internal and external – across North America. Mitchem has partnered with clients such as Chrysler, Discovery, HBO, Microsoft, Travel Channel and Verizon, and she began her career in marketing at IBM.

“For my next role, culture and creativity were most important to me, and FCB’s innovative approach and dedication to its people were very compelling. I am thrilled to be joining such a passionate team to help write the agency’s next chapter,” said Mitchem.

Mitchem’s hire comes as FCB scores one of its best years ever. Named an Advertising Age 'Agency to Watch' at the start of the year, FCB also took home Healthcare Network of the Year at Cannes Lions 2018 and launched bold new work for global clients like Levi’s, Michelob ULTRA, Clorox and Burger King. Following a spate of top new hires – including Jennifer Hohman, as global CMO – the agency has seen big success on the new business front, which included global wins from Kimberly-Clark and GSK, and other notable wins from GE Appliances, Hotwire and Home Depot.