• by Larissa Faw , June 16, 2016

Grupo Gallegos is naming Dave Damman as the agency's new chief creative officer and co-president, effective July 18. Andrew Delbridge, Grupo Gallegos’ current chief strategy and engagement officer is adding the title of co-president, effective immediately. Previously Marty Orzio had held the CCO title, but left last year. 

Delbridge and Damman will partner together to shape and run the 90-staff agency’s growth and operations, as well as its creative output. Founder and CEO John Gallegos remains in his role, continuing to lead and set forth the vision for the agency. 

"We are essentially handing the keys to the agency to our creative leader," says Gallegos. "We know a lot of agencies talk the talk about putting creative first, but we are truly putting this belief into action with Dave’s new hire." 

This newly formed executive team is designed to better position the agency in the evolving consumer landscape. "We are at a pivotal time in the evolution of Grupo Gallegos," he says. "The U.S. landscape has shifted, and brands are looking at demographics in different ways. It’s no longer about 'Hispanic' or 'multicultural' versus the 'general market' – it’s more about how we can tap into cultural sensibilities that transcend race, ethnicity and background, and ultimately help marketers grown and reach their full potential." 

Damman joins the agency from Commonwealth IPG where he served as interim global executive director. Prior to joining Commonwealth, he served as chief creative officer and managing partner at Carmichael Lynch where he helped to lead the agency’s double-digit growth over a five-year period. Over his 20-year career, he has worked with clients including Subaru, Lee Jeans, Timberland, BMW, Holiday Inn, United Airlines and Pepsi.   

"Not only does Dave bring a wealth of experience working on some of the biggest brands in the world, he’s entrepreneurial and excited by the opportunity to work for an indie agency for risk-taking clients, and has a keen understanding of the new face of America," says Gallegos.  

Delbridge first joined Grupo Gallegos in 2012 as chief strategy and engagement officer, overseeing the planning and engagement departments. Under his leadership, Delbridge realigned Grupo Gallegos’ work to align with client needs. Before Grupo Gallegos, Delbridge spent time at McKinney, Publicis, Mojo, and BBDO Clemenger. 

The team will work out of the agency's Huntington Beach, CA office.