In a move that will strengthen the integrated offering from FCB Africa’s agencies in the Western Cape, Hellocomputer has appointed a new Chief Creative Officer and Associate Creative Director.
Mike Barnwell, currently Executive Creative Director at FCB Cape Town becomes Chief Creative Officer for both FCB Cape Town and Hellocomputer while new arrival, Nthabiseng Lethoko, joins the team as Associate Creative Director.
Camilla Clerke stays on as Hellocomputer’s Creative Director.
Making the announcement, Hellocomputer Managing Director, Robyn Campbell, said: “For the last five years Hellocomputer has been one of the leading digital agencies in South Africa, consistently creating work that is both innovative and effective in breaking through the cluttered online marketing space.
“With the recent departure of Executive Creative Director, Simon Spreckley, the opportunity presented itself to expand the agency’s repertoire while still maintaining the high standards we have always set ourselves.”
“I’m confident Mike’s talent and leadership, supported by Camilla and Nthabiseng, is the beginning of a new chapter in our story of continued growth and creative success. Faith in this new leadership team underpins our vision for Hellocomputer’s future.”
Barnwell brings a wealth of experience having built some of South Africa’s favourite brands with a number award-winning campaigns over his 20 plus years in the industry. Since joining FCB Cape Town as Executive Creative Director in 2012 he has guided the agency to its first ever Loerie Grand Prix and has driven consistent performances at Cannes, One Show and Clios.
“I’ve become a huge fan of Hellocomputer’s work over the past few years having had the opportunity to partner them on a number of key projects,” said Barnwell. “I’m looking forward to building on an already strong relationship between the two agencies and helping the teams push boundaries across all platforms.”
Lethoko joins the team fresh from Johannesburg where she amassed over a decade of experience in the industry as a well-respected designer, both above-the-line and in the digital space. “I think it’s an exciting time for Hellocomputer and FCB. I can’t wait to see what innovative ideas and story-telling come out of this new venture,” she said.
FCB Cape Town and Hellocomputer currently share the Wesgro and Western Cape Government accounts and their integrated approach has already proven successful, with the CANSA Testi-monials campaign winning major honours at both the Loeries and Cannes award ceremonies.
