Dentsu UK&I recruits first ever chief strategy officer

Dentsu UK & Ireland is aiming to scale its strategy, business transformation and consulting capabilities with the appointment of its first chief strategy officer in a move designed to help clients solve their challenges through “creative thinking”.

Dan Truman joins from independent consultancy Prophet, where he has been a partner since January 2022, working on digital and marketing transformation.

He previously held senior consulting positions at Infosys, Publicis Sapient and Capgemini (now Frog), where he helped to grow their digital transformation capabilities – including Capgemini’s strategic partnership with MIT.

Earlier in his career, Truman held client-side roles at UBS and Merrill Lynch HSBC, and started his working life at Research International (WPP).

As CSO, Truman will join Dentsu’s executive leadership team and aim to enhance the agency’s ability to deliver unique advantage and growth for its clients, through its integrated media, customer experience, creative and business transformation capabilities.

Specifically, Truman will boost Dentsu UK&I’s strategy, business transformation and consulting capabilities, bringing together commercial rigour with creative thinking and combining data and technology capabilities to create solutions that aid the future success of brands.

Truman will also play a key role in supporting the agency’s growth strategies across EMEA and global new business. Dentsu maintains the appointment underscores its dedication to fostering an environment where innovation thrives, and success becomes a collaborative journey. Truman will start in his role from February.

Dentsu UK&I CEO Angela Tangas said: “This role is fundamental to our commitment to being our clients’ integrated growth partner – both now and long term and comes at a really exciting time in our evolution.

“Dan’s rich experience makes him a fantastic addition to our community and creation of innovative, integrated solutions that enable clients to be future ready in what is set to be another important and dynamic year for business and brands. I’m looking forward to what we can achieve together.”

Truman added: “As a powerhouse of creativity and innovation, accompanied by a 120-year rich heritage and a network of world-class brands, Dentsu is at a key moment in its strategic journey.

“I look forward to working with colleagues and our partners to further unlock the combined strengths of ‘One Dentsu’ in the pursuit of delivering people-centred transformation for our clients.”