FCB New York Promotes Michael Aimette to Co-CCO
His appointment marks the latest leadership change at the agency
BBDO veteran Michael Aimette has taken on the co-chief creative officer role at FCB New York.
He’ll work alongside Gabriel Schmitt, who was promoted to co-chief creative officer of FCB New York earlier this year. The two have jointly taken on a role previously held by Ari Halper, who was promoted to FCB’s creative partner for North America at the start of 2020 before departing to start his own company.
Aimette has been working with FCB New York in a consulting capacity since the beginning of this year. He’s spent the majority of the past decade at BBDO New York, where he led campaigns for clients including Visa and American Family Insurance.
He spearheaded a number of campaigns for GE while there, including “What Matters,” “What’s the Matter with Owen?” and an ad that imagines a world where female scientists are treated like celebrities.
His appointment helps round out FCB New York’s leadership team. Last year, Emma Armstrong joined as president following the departure of Karyn Rockwell. Todd Sussman became chief strategy officer last year after Deb Freeman left to start her own consulting practice.
Aimette knows both Armstrong and FCB’s global chief creative officer Susan Credle from BBDO New York. The three all worked there at various points throughout their careers.
“I’ve known Michael for several years and have seen his courageous and creative leadership in action. He’s that rare human—a great business partner to clients, talented creative, and beloved team leader,” Armstrong said in a statement. “Now, more than ever, clients want access to senior leadership. Having Michael and Gabriel partner as co-CCOs enables us to grow while still staying deeply involved in the day-to-day business of helping our clients succeed.”
According to FCB New York, Aimette has been key to the agency’s pitch track record this year, helping it add four new clients in the first half of 2020. In his new role, he’ll work with clients including AB InBev, Centrum, Lincoln Financial and The Real Cost, the FDA’s tobacco prevention campaign.
FCB New York created two Super Bowl spots for Michelob Ultra this year. It also crafted Burger King’s “Stay Home of the Whopper” campaign, which encouraged people to order in during the Covid-19 lockdown.
