Deloitte Digital-owned Heat is expanding to the midwest with a new office in Chicago.
The office sits within Deloitte Digital Studio in Chicago, with the agency currently working to carve out a distinctive space ahead of longer term plans which the agency claims are underway.
Heat hired Julia Hammond (pictured) to lead the office as managing director. She arrives at Heat Chicago from VMLY&R, where she spent over five and a half years, most recently as executive director, North America. She also served as WPP Team Leader for Tyson Foods in North America.
“Chicago—with its booming tech, finance and food & bev markets—seemed like the obvious choice for the next phase of Heat’s expansion. As we look to deliver surprising, impactful work to clients across industries, Chicago provides us with access to both a robust talent pool and a number of innovative companies that will enable us to solve business problems through creativity,” said Heat CEO John Elder. “Julia brings the leadership, vision and experience needed to grow our Chicago presence, and we’re thrilled to have her aboard.”
Hammond previously served as senior vice president, head of engagement for Cavalry and in account director roles for Leo Burnett Chicago, Fallon and FCB.
The Heat Chicago office will be anchored by the agency’s Aspen Dental account, one of the agency’s largest. Heat Chicago is actively looking to fill around 15 roles, with the goal of reaching a team of 40-60 within a year.