Iris Worldwide co-founder Ian Millner, who stepped down as chair of the network earlier this year after nearly three decades, has revealed his first non-executive director appointments.
Millner, who will continue to advise Iris Worldwide in a global capacity, has been appointed chairman of independent brand activation group Zeal and non-executive chairman of creator economy agency NewGen, in newly created roles designed to support the businesses’ next phase of growth. He has also joined integrated marketing group MSQ as a non-executive director.
The appointments come after Millner stepped down from Iris Worldwide in March, and reflect his decision to work with ambitious marketing businesses focused on their next phase of growth.
At Zeal Group, Millner will work alongside founders Stewart Hilton and Robert White as the business continues its expansion strategy following the acquisition of social-first studio Tommy and the launch of retail and shopper PR agency Joe Public.
Founded in Manchester in 2014, Zeal brings together specialist capabilities across shopper, experiential, partnerships, PR, social, influencer, and digital marketing. The group works with brands including Nestlé, Carlsberg Britvic, Suntory, Kraft Heinz, Kellanova, Arla, Essity and Revlon.
At NewGen, Millner will support CEO and co-founder Mike Craddock and the leadership team as the agency continues its international expansion and investment in technology, talent and creator-led marketing.
Founded in 2015, NewGen operates across London, Manchester, New York and Paris, helping brands connect with audiences through creator-led marketing, social-first creativity, and proprietary technology platforms. The agency works with brands including Samsung, PepsiCo, P&G, Galderma and Activision Blizzard.
Finally, at MSQ, Millner will support the group’s continued growth across marketing, communications and consultancy.
Millner said: “Having spent my career building a business from the ground up, I’m excited by the opportunity to work alongside founders and leaders who are creating the next generation of marketing companies.
“What attracted me to Zeal, NewGen and MSQ is the quality of the people, the ambition of the businesses, and the momentum they’ve created. Each has a strong entrepreneurial mindset and a clear sense of where it’s heading. I’m excited to support them as they build on that momentum.”
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