Reading Room hires ex-Universal McCann MD Thomas

by Jennifer Whitehead,, Brand Republic 01-Mar-04, 08:00

LONDON - Digital communications agency Reading Room has hired Andrew Thomas, former managing director of Universal McCann Manchester, to head its new Manchester office.

Reading Room already works with two clients based in Manchester, the Disability Rights Commission and Travelcare, and Thomas has been hired as the next step in establishing an effective presence in the region.

The agency expanded to Sydney Australia in 2001 but used existing staff from the London office to set up the new business. However, this time the company felt that it would be able to move more quickly by bringing in new blood.

Margaret Manning, CEO of Reading Room, said: "The decision to hire someone of Andrew's calibre means that we can be operational straight away and will give the Manchester office a fantastic flying start."

The agency will have an office close to Castlefield, an area that is already home to several media, advertising and design agencies.

"Digital channels are now having a major impact upon how client business is evolving and it is important that they are considered collaboratively as part of the marketing communication mix. I am in no doubt that Reading Room, in creative teams of digital specialists with a marketing outlook will soon establish itself as a major player in Manchester," Thomas said.

Mike Williams was named to the new role of chairman of Universal McCann Manchester following Thomas's departure.

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