CenturyLink has named Arnold as its lead creative agency, following a review. We originally received tips about the appointment two weeks ago. At the time, no one commented on the lead, but today the agency confirmed the news to Adweek. Havas Worldwide also tweeted its congratulations to the (Havas-owned) Boston-based agency. CenturyLink spends approximately $90 million on media annually. Media buying and planning duties were not part of the review, and remain at Rochester agency Butler/Till.
Arnold’s Boston office will handle duties including digital and direct marketing, in additional to traditional advertising. Shirish Lal, chief marketing officer at CenturyLink, cited Arnold’s “strategic thinking and people” in choosing the agency over other finalists, who remain undisclosed.
“That’s the opportunity—to really build brand awareness,” said Pam Hamlin, Arnold’s global president, speaking of the lack of brand recognition for CenturyLink, despite the company’s $18.1 billion in revenue last year. “This really represents the next chapter of them as a marketer.”
Elliott Seaborn, a managing director at Arnold’s Boston office, will manage the account, while Group Creative Director David Register will be responsible for creative development. Arnold’s first work for CenturyLink is expected early next year.