Mainardo de Nardis parts company with Aegis Media

by Nikki Sandison Brand Republic 09-May-08, 09:20

LONDON - Mainardo de Nardis is leaving his position as global CEO of Aegis Media immediately without a job to go to, after two years in the role.

Aegis has appointed Jerry Buhlmann, CEO of Aegis Media EMEA, to take over De Nardis's position.

De Nardis took on the global CEO role, then a newly created position, in October 2005. He joined from WPP's Mediaedge:cia, where he was global CEO.

Buhlmann has 25 years' experience of media and advertising and, since 2003, has been CEO of Aegis Media EMEA, responsible for 32 national markets.

Prior to that, Buhlmann served as CEO of Carat International for three years, responsible for Aegis Media's international clients.

He began his career at Young & Rubicam, before moving to WCRS. In 1989, he founded UK media agency BBJ, which was acquired by Aegis in 1999.

Aegis Media reported organic revenue growth of 10.3% in 2007 and the first quarter of 2008 and now derives one quarter of its revenue from digital services.

Buhlmann will join the board of Aegis on June 2.

Robert Lerwill, CEO of Aegis, said: "As we continue to develop an industry-leading global media communications network, I am confident that Jerry will take Aegis Media to the next level.

"I would also like to thank Mainardo for all he has done during his time at the helm of Aegis Media. He is a true professional and he has our gratitude. We wish him the very best in his future endeavours."

Buhlmann said: "My priorities will be to maintain our record of market-leading growth through continuing expansion in digital and emerging markets, efficient operations, extending our client relationships and ensuring we continue to have the most competitive offer in our market."