• by John Capone , January 11, 2010

R/GA Monday announced the appointment of William Charnock to the newly created role of chief strategy officer. He will be responsible for overseeing R/GA's global strategy and will be managing the strategy, planning, and research teams along with the international development of the strategic services group.

In his position at R/GA, Charnock will contribute significantly to the development of thought leadership across the agency. He reports to Bob Greenberg, CEO and global chief creative officer.

"William is uniquely qualified for this role at R/GA," said Greenberg in a statement. "His background combines not only traditional and digital insights and planning experience, but he also has extensive expertise in managing large, multi-regional teams and crafting innovative relationships with partners on a global scale."

"I've done a lot of innovative work for big brands over the years and wanted to take this to the next level," said Charnock. "Bob's vision and R/GA's digital capabilities are unmatched in the industry, and in this digital age, these are the resources you need at your fingertips to do innovative, brand-building work."

Previously, Charnock was at JWT New York as director of strategic innovation and co-head of strategic planning. He is credited with doubling the size of the strategy department at JWT to over 40, and integrating communications planning, digital, and analytics into a single department.

Before that Charnock held director roles at FCB, NY and BBDO, NY, and at both companies he was well-known for championing integration efforts.

The well-regarded R/GA, no stranger to receiving industry accolades, will accept OMMA's Agency of the Year 2009 in New York Monday Night.