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A Bozell spokesperson in New York also denied an argument took place.
A decision on the consolidation review, started by Chrysler last September, will be announced within the next 30 days, said Damoose.
Despite the rumored spat, and reports from sources that BBDO is favored by Damoose’s selection committee, Bozell still appears to have a good shot at winning the business. Kelmenson is close to former Chrysler chairman Lee Iacocca, who still is chairman of the automaker’s finance committee, and the review began last fall as an exercise to lower costs.
Handicappers also believe Bozell is in the catbird seat because the agency is Chrysler’s primary media buyer in international markets. And with the oft-rumored possibility of Damoose taking an international marketing post in the near future, many feel Bozell could offer international/domestic media synergies.
Another possible outcome is that Chrysler ereate a free-standing media company that would be run by media pros from all three agencies. Phil Matz, senior vp/director of media services at Bozell, is believed to be the front-runner to lead the unit ff it is formed.
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