Wunderman Thompson UK has boosted its senior data team with the appointment of Dentsu Data Labs’ Steve Richards as UK data partner.
Reporting into UK head of data and insights David Lloyd, Richards has been charged with leading the teams responsible for data strategy, insight and effectiveness.
He will focus on developing Wunderman Thompson’s data product, devising new approaches to audience insight, effectiveness and technology across communications, commerce and customer experience.
Lloyd will also drive greater integration between data strategy, performance and media for the agency’s clients, including BT Group, Shell, Microsoft, Nestlé and The Macallan.
At Dentsu Data Labs, Richards held the role of managing director of data, consultancy and solutions, overseeing a team of 30 across Carat, Vizeum, iProspect and DentsuX.
Responsible for supporting UK and global clients with data insights, visualisation, ad tech consultancy and operations, he was pivotal in converting new business wins including H&M, Pandora and Kraft Heinz. Prior to Dentsu, Thompson had spells at MEC, iProspect and Wavemaker.
Lloyd said: “Steve’s a tremendous talent. His skillset and knowledge across data, insights and technology, paired with his passion for innovative solutions, sets him apart and will be a huge asset to Wunderman Thompson and our clients. Staying ahead of a rapidly changing world and industry, particularly right now, is as important and exciting as it is challenging. With Steve onboard I have no doubt the best is yet to come.”
Richards added: “It’s impressive, and frankly quite rare, to find an agency with the equal strength of capabilities and expertise across each step of a brand’s experience. To start the year with a group of individuals as passionate and talented as the Wunderman Thompson lot is hugely exciting.”
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