WATATAWA picks new MD as Simon Pangrazio steps down

Strategic communications consultancy and WE Communications (WE) company WATATAWA has appointed Stephen Robertson (pictured left) as its new managing director.

In his new role as managing director, Robertson will oversee WATATAWA's day-to-day operations and management of the business, while strengthening the agency's footprint in Singapore and across Asia-Pacific (APAC). 

He will report to Nitin Mantri, regional executive managing director, APAC, WE.

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“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead WATATAWA and maintain the high bar that Simon Pangrazio (pictured right) has set. It has been a privilege to work closely together over the decade and to develop a business and consulting model that is as relevant to our clients as ever and encourages and engages our people," said Robertson on his appointment. Pangrazio was the company's previous managing partner.

Prior to this role, Robertson was director, Southeast Asia at Edelman for five years. He was also the president of New Zealand Chamber of Commerce Singapore where he was responsible for community and business engagement. 

Other roles he has held include group account director at Acumen Republic and Text 100 in Auckland. 

Robertson's appointment comes as Pangrazio (pictured right) steps down from his role of more than 14 years. He will leave the firm on 5 July. 

“This transition is a passing-of-the-torch moment to the next -generation of leadership and an example of how WE invests in and develops our leaders from within,” said Kass Sells, CEO, International, WE.

“A long-time business partner to Pangrazio, Robertson is a seasoned communications professional who knows the market, our people and our clients, with a strong vision for the future of WATATAWA. At the same time, I want to extend our gratitude to Pangrazio, who was instrumental in building the WATATAWA business and the team we have today," added Sells. 

“Robertson is a leading strategist, client counsellor, and trusted voice in the industry,” said Mantri.

“This succession has been long planned, and under Robertson’s leadership the agency will only continue to evolve, with WATATAWA’s clients in the very best hands. Pangrazio has played an integral role in the growth and success of WATATAWA for almost 15 years, and we are deeply grateful for his contribution. We wish him the best for his future," added Mantri. 

Robertson's appointment comes after WE appointed Nichole Provatas as its new executive vice president, international head of integrated marketing.

This new role is an expansion from her previous role as executive vice president, APAC head of integrated marketing. Prior to that, she was the group head of digital, creative and strategy. 

As executive vice president, international head of integrated marketing, Provatas will now oversee WE's borderless experience team (BET). BET is a globally decentralised group that provides client counsel, creative execution, strategic insights and data capabilities to clients around the world. 

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