• by Larissa Faw , January 8, 2015

Traditionally, agencies see design as a service to other creative functions. However, Rapp believes design sits at the center of the creative process as an integral part of conceptual and strategic development.

As such, the UK-based agency is promoting Adrian Whatman, Creative Director, Design to the board of Rapp’s creative agency. He will continue to serve as Creative Director, Design but this promotion adds an 'upward-facing' dimension to his role that puts design into the mix at a board level.

“Adrian’s well-deserved promotion to the board reflects the increasing importance of design in the progressive creative work we’re producing at Rapp," says Jason Andrews, Executive Creative Director, Rapp. "In today’s multi-platform world, design discipline is integral to the entire experience, not just the final execution. Adrian has the vision and knowledge to help us grow into completely new areas.”

Whatman has swiftly risen through the ranks in the agency. In May, Whatman was promoted to Creative Director from Design Director, the role he had held since he joined Rapp from Elvis in 2007. During his past seven years, Whatman has expanded Rapp’s design studio into areas such as Motion Graphics, UX, 3D design and digital best practice. He has also spearheaded several pro-active initiatives such as Rapp’s Design Fusion workshops and the global Rapp Design Network – a forum for exchange of ideas across Rapp’s global footprint.

Rapp is a part of Diversified Agency Services, a division of Omnicom Group.