Elms Oversees Nike

The Rose City’s most famous ad agency has turned to a Crescent City executive to run the media team for its largest client.

Jim Elms, vp, media director at Peter A. Mayer Advertising in New Orleans, is joining Wieden + Kennedy’s Portland headquarters on Sept. 18 in the new position of media director on the $220 million-plus Nike account.

In his position, Elms will be responsible for media strategy, planning and buying on the shop’s flagship footwear client.

The new post parallels the Wieden concept of “partnering” with Nike by creating counterparts to the client’s in-house teams for creative, account planning, etc.

Elms will report to Knox Duncan, Wieden media director in Portland, and will supervise a team of 16 in the Oregon office. His primary responsibility will be to serve as lead media strategist on the account. Nike broadcast buying is handled by Wieden’s New York office.

“In addition to leading the Nike account, what I am particularly excited about is that Jim represents my partner here at the agency,” said Duncan. “He brings a fresh, honest perspective and a real innate sense of curiosity about communications.”

Elms also has served in media positions at Goodby, Silverstein & Partners, TBWA\Chiat\Day and Young & Rubicam, all in San Francisco, and FCB Worldwide here.

“You couldn’t write a more interesting and challenging job description,” said Elms. “I was impressed with the people at the agency and the client. Everyone seems to be motivated by the big idea, regardless of where it comes from.”