Hipperson exits ZenithOptimedia role

ZenithOptimedia UK boss Tim Hipperson has stepped down after just six months in the role following the loss of the agency’s biggest account – the £135m L’Oréal business – and is being replaced by a new management board.
Hipperson only joined in April, and set about making his stamp on the business with two new divisions, ZenithOptimedia Health and FMCG Republic. Just two weeks ago he was hailing the appointment of chief information officer Ian Liddicoat as a “crucially important role, moving forwards”.
It is understood he is in discussions with holding company Publicis Groupe about opportunities within the business. He will continue to work at the network as a consultant.
Hipperson started his career at the Database Group in 1990, then in 1995 became data planning director at Tequila. He went on to hold senior roles at McCann Relationship Marketing, DraftFCB, RMG and G2 Joshua before quitting for the ZenithOptimedia job.
The agency is to share Hipperson’s responsibilities among a new UK and worldwide management board, chaired by ZenithOptimedia global managing partner Belinda Rowe, while managing director of client service Tom Cijffers has been appointed MD of Zenith UK.
ZenithOptimedia Worldwide chief executive Steve King said: “With the new structure and the resources we’ve got, we don’t need a chief executive. What we need to do is leverage the skillsets we’ve got at a global level.”
Last week the agency lost L’Oréal’s media planning and buying business in the UK and Ireland after a three-way pitch that also involved PHD. The account switches over in January.

1 Comment on "Hipperson exits ZenithOptimedia role"