JBL's parent firm Harman hands global ad duties to Havas Group

Harman International, the parent firm of consumer lifestyle brand JBL, has consolidated its creative and media accounts with Havas Group globally. The agency aims to deliver a global and fully integrated solution that brings together brand strategy, creative, content, media and production as well as selective support in social media and influencer marketing. Havas´ mandate especially includes bringing the JBL brand to the next level of consumer activation.

The pitch ran from July this year and included other major holding companies. The Havas global account team will work across regional hubs for the Americas, Europe, and Asia as well as through dedicated teams in key markets. 

Aside from JBL, Harman also owns home audio systems brand Harman Kardon as well as B2B products, services and technology solutions for automakers and enterprise customers globally. Havas Group aims to deliver a globally aligned strategy across markets and disciplines, leading to better creative and local market adoption while still retaining local market relevance and agility. 

The group's ability to deliver end-to-end production services, a data-led experience and a media solution that unlocks meaningful content and efficiencies of scale, as well as planning and performance across channels, were key considerations in its selection. Havas added that its new technologies, tools, and platforms as well as its data-centric strategic approach, allow for reduced complexity, making it possible to consolidate Harman’s roster of agencies.

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to Havas Group for further information.

Harman International’s VP of brand strategy and consumer insights, John Livanos explained that Harman’s marketing team is strengthening the company's operational model and building upon the foundational principles of insights, automation, integration, measurement, and accountability that will unlock exponential business growth.

"Havas will be a central partner in this growth journey. We’re excited to build the solutions we need together and know that Havas is as invested in our success as we are,” Livanos added.

Yannick Bollore, Havas group chairman and CEO said: “At Havas, we combine agility and global reach, making us a brilliant option for a growth business such as Harman with huge ambition. It’s our collaborative spirit brought to life and a great opportunity for us to deliver meaningful growth together." Separately, Havas also works with likes of Michelin, Puma, Reckitt, Sanofi, Hugo BOSS, KIA and Swarovski globally.

Closer to home on the leadership front, Havas Media Singapore promoted Deanson Lee to head of digital. He was previously executive director of digital strategy and client solutions. Lee oversees digital initiatives across the business and reports to Russell Lai, chief commercial officer of Havas Media Group Singapore.

Related articles: 
Havas Group’s seasonal perspectives: Fall for the culture 
Havas Media Group Singapore names new head of digital 
Havas Group and Invictus Blue strike affiliate agreement 
Havas Group Indonesia names new senior manager trio