Independent New York agency founder John Barker has promoted several of his trusted senior leaders at his agency, Barker.
Newly named CEO Mary Beth Weil, who previously steered Barker as evp, managing director, has been named partner, along with longtime finance leader Deven Madray, now the new CFO, and legacy agency leaders Kim Tracey, elevated to chief client officer, and creative lead Sandi Harari to chief creative officer.
“These promotions and designations of partners represent an important investment in the future of the agency and our service to both current and future clients and their growth,” said Barker in a statement. “This leadership team understands our collective vision for the agency and how to continue to move us forward.”
Barker, who founded the agency in 2003, will continue his role as chief idea officer.
“Barker is no longer my agency alone, and the new partners and C-suite will be empowered to lead our performance and growth. It will also allow me to focus on the big ideas that can help our clients stand apart and maximize their opportunities.”
In the past year, Barker has been awarded strategic and creative duties for the Maidenform and Bali brands by HanesBrands, and Playtex was then added to Barker’s remit for a makeover. The agency has also been awarded additional business from mainstay clients Bausch and Lomb and Parx Casino, among others.
“Our cohesive team has institutional knowledge and modern-day know-how which is proving to be a winning combination,” said Weil in a statement. “Kim and Sandi were among John’s first hires and have helped pave the way to create an agency for today’s shifting talent and client needs. There’s so much more in store.”