• by Richard Whitman , Columnist, July 16, 2020

In a move described by the agency as mutual, Paul Marobella, Chairman-CEO Havas Creative North America, will be leaving after eight years of “dedicated service.” 

His specific post will not be filled once he is gone, but Stephanie Nerlich effectively replaces him. Nerlich, Global Chief Client Officer, is taking on the additional role of Executive Managing Partner, North America. She will continue to report to Chris Hirst, Global CEO Havas Creative. 

Nerlich joined the agency in January after serving as executive vice president at MDC Partners. 

Havas said that Nerlich “has demonstrated her wealth of experience in contemporary agency management, fostering client relationships and strengthening company culture.” 

Culture was definitely an issue during Marobella’s tenure. 

In her new role, Nerlich will be responsible for all Havas Creative Network agencies in North America. 

Hirst issued this statement: “We believe that our organization is simply the sum of our people. To be a leading creative company, we must have more than our fair share of top talent and a range of diverse skill-sets and backgrounds. Stephanie fits that bill – she’s a proven leader who drives results and we are extremely lucky to have her on the team.” 

The company had this to say about Marobella: “We thank Paul for his leadership of our U.S. business over the past three years, his longstanding presence in our Chicago agencies and his many positive impacts on our businesses. Specifically, Paul was instrumental in identifying many successful acquisitions that have become part of the Havas family, co-founding our Annex model and has great passion for integrating and supporting social causes as part of agency life.”