• by Steve McClellan  @mp_mcclellan, January 17, 2013

Havas is retiring its MPG and Media Contacts monikers as client-facing brands, the firm said Thursday. Those operations will be rebranded and folded into the newly created Havas Media Group.

The move follows by less than a week the departure of MPG global CEO Maria Luisa Francoli Plaza from the company. At the time, no reason was given for her leaving but the fact that the agency brand she oversaw has been eliminated was likely a major factor.

The company cited a need to simplify its integration strategy as the reason for the restructuring.

Alfonso Rodés, Havas Media Group’s CEO stated, “The explosion of digital media means that no one can afford to deliver a siloed approach to communications.  This new media model integrates our digital expertise “at the core” of our organisation, promoting greater agility between all our teams and disciplines.”

As part of the reorganization the group has formed a new executive committee managed by Alfonso Rodés.  Dominique Delport, CEO of Havas Media France has been appointed  Global Managing Director for the Havas Media Group. He’ll report to Rodés, and be in charge of the commercial activity for all countries and all brands, strategy, new business, digital integration and intelligence.

Michel Sibony takes on the new title of Global Head of Middle Office and  will manage all global planning and buying operations as well as the group’s digital and specialist offers. Jordi Ustrell becomes Global Head of Back Office and will oversee the global support services such as IT, HR, legal and finance.