• by Fern Siegel , June 12, 2024

Winston-Salem, N.C.-based The Variable is revamping its executive suite.

Former CFO Jodi Heelan, who joined the agency in 2014, has been named president and partner.

David Mullen, who joined The Variable in 2013 and became CEO in 2022, will remain a partner. He is shifting to a newly created role: Chief Client Officer.

“There's immense opportunity right now to push the boundaries of the agency model and show up differently for our clients in ways that drive far more value,” said Heelan.

“I’m stepping into this new role to focus solely on architecting new ways to partner with our clients. To wonder how customer-centric brands like Starbucks, Target and Walgreens would act if they were an agency, and to experiment and implement new approaches that drive our clients’ business growth.”

The Variable’s current roster includes P&G, Electrolux/Frigidaire, NAPA Auto Parts, BASF and Whole Earth Brands.