By Claire Beale
Patou Nuytemans, the chief digital officer of Ogilvy EMEA, is taking over as CEO of Memac Ogilvy in the Middle East, replacing Edmond Moutran, the founder of the agency.
Nuytemans, who has worked for Ogilvy for more than two decades, will move to Dubai, though she will continue in her digital role alongside her new responsibilities. Moutran, who has led the agency since 1984, will stay on as executive chairman of the agency.
Memac Ogilvy covers 14 countries across the Middle East and has more than 1,000 employees, with a client list that includes Coca-Cola, American Express, Kimberly Clark and IBM.
Nuytemans has led digital transformation projects for clients including IBM, Vodafone and Unilever and has led the network rollout of a leading-edge social media performance capability – which is currently Ogilvy’s fastest growing offer. Under Patou’s lead, digital services went from representing 15 per cent of Ogilvy EMEA’s revenues 10 years ago, to more than 40 per cent today.
John Seifert, Ogilvy’s worldwide chief, said Nuytemans would be “a real agent of change” for the company and that her appointment also reflected Ogilvy’s determination to drive through gender equality amongst its leadership team.
“Patou is one of our boldest and bravest leaders,” Seifert said. “She will be a brilliant role model for a whole pipeline of young female talent who will become the leaders in our business.”
Nuytemans added: ““The success and legacy that Mr. Moutran has built with Memac Ogilvy is seldom seen in any market around the world. It’s an honor and a privilege to be taking the helm at such a connected, passionate, and creative group.”