Independent creative agency Big Spaceship has brought back Ranae Heuer, naming her chief executive officer, taking over for founder and former CEO Michael Lebowitz—who will step into the newly created role of executive chairman.
Heuer previously worked at Big Spaceship for seven years, rising through the ranks to become managing director. Most recently, Heuer spent six years at Huge as Midwest president. She now returns to oversee all clients and employees, with a focus on driving growth and diversifying business. Heuer will report to Lebowitz.
“I am thrilled to welcome Ranae back to Big Spaceship. When I wrote down our needs in filling the role—someone with both imagination and operational chops, who leads with empathy and understands the long-term value of nurturing culture—Ranae was the only one on the list,” said Lebowitz in a statement. “She will help further propel Big Spaceship into our next phase of growth and evolution. I will also remain involved, helping to shape some exciting new initiatives and our long-term vision.”
During her tenure at Huge, Heuer helped grow the region while diversifying the agency’s client portfolio. Her efforts led to AOR client partnerships with Fortune 100 brands, including Stellantis, McDonald’s and Canada Goose.
“Michael has a strong vision for Big Spaceship that I find incredibly compelling. The agency also has continued to grow key offerings and capabilities, including full-service creative campaigns, product and consulting, plus we just opened a West Coast presence. I can’t say more at this stage, but I’m excited for where we’re taking things,” said Heuer. “Beyond that, the team and culture drew me back to the agency, just as it first brought me to Big Spaceship years ago. I very much look forward to partnering with Michael again, as well as the leadership team and everyone else here.”
In addition to her previous position as Big Spaceship’s managing director, Heuer has worked at Organic, JWT and Doner.