M&C Saatchi Group UK has poached Dentsu Creative’s UK head of design to the newly created position of executive head of art, marking the next stage in the agency’s mission to build “Cultural Power” proposition through creativity and craft.
Lisa Carrana brings more than 25 years of design experience, with a career spanning branding, advertising and integrated campaigns for some of the world’s most recognised brands, including Adidas, Just Eat, Xbox, Vodafone, Chivas Regal, Sky and eBay.
She previously spent almost eight years at McCann London, rising from design director to head of design and working closely with M&C Saatchi’s current joint global chief creative officers Robert Doubal and Laurence Thomson.
In her new role, Carrana will define and uphold the group’s visual identity and artistic standards, with the aim of ensuring M&C Saatchi sets the benchmark for craft across the industry.
She will lead and mentor design talent, inspire creative ambition, and bring together art directors, designers, illustrators, photographers and other specialists to deliver standout work.
Carrana will work across every channel – from film and print to digital, social and experiential – embedding craft at the heart of the group’s “Cultural Power” proposition and ensuring every execution is both visually distinctive and culturally resonant.
Carrana said: “I’ve always admired M&C Saatchi and hoped one day I’d get the chance to join. So, when the opportunity came, I leapt at it.
“This is an agency with heritage and swagger – truly iconic – and I’m excited to help create the next wave of stand-out work. For me, Cultural Power is about combining big ideas with craft that shapes how brands show up in the world. I can’t wait to get started.”
She will report to Doubal and Thomson, who commented: “Having worked with Lisa before, we know what an amazing powerhouse she is – her work rate and enthusiasm are infectious.
“She brings brands to life across every platform – from moving image to bold, immersive design worlds – with standout campaigns for Just Eat, Microsoft, Xbox, Vodafone and more. Lisa has been part of creating some of the world’s most vibrant and iconic work.
“We’re thrilled she’s joining us on our mission to build culturally powerful brands. Welcome Lisa – we’re looking forward to having your joie de vivre, energy and passion in the business.”
M&C Saatchi Group UK creative partner Guy Bradbury concluded: “Lisa’s appointment signals our intent to put craft and design at the centre of our offering. She has an incredible ability to turn ambitious ideas into visually distinctive platforms that resonate in culture and endure over time. Her leadership will help us push even further, making sure every detail is purposeful and every execution sets a new bar.”
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