We don’t usually cover the PR front when it comes to agency news, but perhaps this is worth noting. JWT New York’s director of communications Kenneth Hein is splitting after 18 months to take on the role of marketing director at full-service, NYC-based agency gyro, which works with the likes of Audi, HP, FedEx and L’Oreal. JWT didn’t wait too long to replace Hein as the agency’s announced that IPG/McCann vet Anaka Kobzev is taking over as director of communications for the New York office. Kobzev’s new boss, JWT North America CEO David Eastman, sent a memo out. Peep it if you will after the jump.
“Please welcome Anaka Kobzev, who joins us this week as the new Director of Communications for JWT New York, reporting to me. Anaka replaces Ken Hein, who is leaving to begin a new adventure at Gyro New York.
Anaka joins us from Interpublic, where she spent the last 10 years in key corporate communications roles. Most recently, she led communications for McCann Erickson’s West Coast, Detroit and Canadian offices, as well as the creative boutique twofifteenmccann. She’s managed communications programs for clients like GM, HP, Nestlé and Xbox, among others, and helped twofifteenmccann (as agencytwofifteen) earn a spot on Creativity’s 2011 A-List.
Before working with McCann in 2008, Anaka led communications strategy for IPG’s branded entertainment unit, and helped to launch the IPG Emerging Media Lab. Prior to that, she worked for Initiative for five years in media relations and corporate communications.
Anaka will sit on the 2nd floor near Britt Hayes and her extension is x8691. Carly Wengrover, our fearless PR Coordinator will be seated alongside her, continuing in her role at JWT now as a member of Anaka’s team.
In the coming days (and weeks), Anaka will be scheduling time with many of you. We have a plethora of exciting new creative work in production from CTP to Royal Caribbean, Macy’s and Diageo. Anaka is here to help tell these stories to enhance our reputation and build momentum for 2012 and beyond.
D”