• by Richard Whitman , Columnist, July 14, 2022

Havas Group said today that its Health Networks CEO Donna Murphy is taking on the added role of CEO Havas Creative Group. She replaces Chris Hirst who is leaving the company after four years in the role.

Havas said Murphy is tasked with overseeing a “deeper integration" of the Group’s Creative and Health networks, part of a bid to simplify and streamline operations at the holding company.

Murphy joined Havas Group 35 years ago and founded the health operation after leading several US acquisitions before being named CEO. The company’s Health operation now has a staff of over 5,000 worldwide.

In addition, Havas Global Media CEO Peter Mears has been named Chairman of the Havas North America region. He’ll retain his current role running media. That move is also designed to bring a more “unified approach” to operations, the company said.

Murphy and Mears, both part of the company’s Executive Committee will continue their “close collaboration,” the company said.

In a related move Steve Netzley, founder and CEO of the Havas Edge Performance Network, is joining the Group’s Executive Committee. 

Havas Group CEO Yannick Bollore stated, “Through her proven leadership, Donna has built the prototype for the end-to-end consultative partner that brands need today. Layered with our creative force and talented leadership teams, what we can offer health and consumer brands alike is powerful.”

Hirst joined Havas in 2015 when he helped restructure operations in Europe and the UK. Earlier he was CEO of Grey Group’s UK business.