Former CEO of Havas, Vilhelmsson, secures another top-tier position

Havas Germany is undergoing a transformation, with Kris Vilhelmsson taking over as the new location leader. Vilhelmsson, who previously held the position of managing director at Havas Germany, brings a wealth of experience from his time at Procter & Gamble and various automotive brands, including Volvo, BMW Motorrad, Opel, Toyota, and Müller.

Meanwhile, at DDB Frankfurt, there are also changes afoot. The strategic leadership of the agency remains with Christina Keller, who will now focus more on brands Cupra and Seat. Keller's expertise in the automotive industry, honed over years at the agency, will be invaluable in steering these brands forward.

To complement Keller's strategic leadership, Norman Henkel has been appointed as the new Executive Creative Director (ECD) responsible for creative output at DDB. Henkel, who joins from McCann and the Porsche agency Keko, will oversee creative production across advertising, brand experience, and trade marketing.

Henrike Mertens, who joined DDB last year as Client Service Director, will be responsible for consultation and coordination with partner agencies. Mertens also brings a wealth of experience in leading large clients, particularly in the automotive sector, from her time at McCann and Armando Testa.

Ute Poprawe, who previously led the location, will continue to be available for customers and the team in an advisory capacity. This ensures a smooth transition and continuity of service for DDB's clients.

Peter Mergemeier, former CEO of Havas Germany, left the company a few months ago. With Vilhelmsson at the helm, Havas Germany is looking to reinvent itself, with Vilhelmsson bringing his automotive expertise to the table.

These changes at both Havas Germany and DDB Frankfurt signal a new chapter for these agencies, with a renewed focus on the automotive industry and a commitment to delivering innovative and effective solutions for their clients.