Publicis Groupe’s Saatchi & Saatchi has appointed Cliff Atkinson as the agency’s first ever director of culture and DE&I.  

The agency said Atkinson was selected for the role because of  proven track record of promoting diversity efforts at legacy brands.  

For Aktinson the new role marks a return to the agency. Previously served as senior director at the agency’s LA office 12+ years, working on Toyota until 2018.  

In 2021, he co-founded a nonprofit organization to connect ethnically diverse youth to opportunities in advertising and film. Atkinson is also the co-founder of Mesh Communities, a community focused platform built to provide creators and communities ownership of their digital spaces. 

“Cliff is a talented natural collaborator and a highly strategic problem solver,” said Chuck Maguy, CEO, President at Saatchi & Saatchi. “His return will strengthen Saatchi & Saatchi’s goal towards a more inclusive future.”