Merkle forms new agency services group
Merkle has created a new agency services group, centralizing all of its creative and production management resources under the direction of Michael Mathias, EVP of agency services.
“We believe that having a connected agency all the way through is a much more competitive view than having multiple connect points,” Mathias said, adding that this will make Merkle more competitive when pitching new accounts. The reorganization will also make it easier to test a broader array of programs and develop new media programs.
The group will manage all aspects of creative and production, including campaign management, copywriting, graphic design and client liaison for online and offline programs that leverage both traditional and new media.
Previously, creative and production services were handled independently by the separate areas within Merkle. By having a common set of workflow processes and one set of best practices, Merkle expects to gain “one clear vision of how this all connects into quantitative-based marketing” and be able to provide “a cohesive approach for clients,” Mathias said.
The agency services group includes more than 100 employees in four offices. Kathleen Hart will lead Merkle's production management as senior director; Bob Ball will be senior director, creative resources; and Ken Geis will be VP of engagement and innovation.
