Kevin Flatt has been made ECD of Cramer Krasselt Chicago, we’ve confirmed with the agency. The 40 year-old heads to CK from Leo Burnett ARC where he was EVP/ECD and digital practice lead. But according to various sources, he’s leaving behind more than a job — we’re told some 20 people followed Flatt to Arc from Tribal DDB after he was let go last year.
For C-K’s part this is a clear move in the digital direction. Also, they are a bit stalkery: “We’ve been watching Kevin for a long time and feel his unique blend of experience—including design, advertising, and of course, his huge digital strengths—is an ideal fit for the agency,” said Marshall Ross, EVP/chief creative officer of Cramer-Krasselt.
Flatt will bolster the shop’s burgeoning digital offering. “We’re already a very good digital shop,” said Ross, “and we’ve been steadily adding talent and resources as part of our aspiration to be one of the best.”
When the news of Flatt’s departure from Arc leaked late last week, tips and calls began coming in claiming that many former Tribal employees followed Flatt to Arc and are less than happy about his departure. A Leo burnett representative did not respond by the time this story was filed, and we have not been able to confirm names or titles of any alleged followers. But you know, if true, bummer.
Flatt joined the agency in March, 2009. He begins June 1.