Accenture Song has announced new leadership appointments for its operations in Australia and New Zealand. Fresh off a panel at SXSW this afternoon, Bronwyn van der Merwe has been appointed as Accenture Song lead for Australia and New Zealand, effective tomorrow. Van der Merwe brings over 20 years of experience in the design and innovation space to her new role. She is currently the Service practice lead at Accenture Song ANZ and has previously established design agency, Fjord, in Australia, leading a team of 350 and launching studios across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and Japan.

In addition to van der Merwe's appointment, Matt Michael will become CEO of Droga5 in Australia and New Zealand from December 1st, following The Monkeys' integration into Droga5. Michael will also continue to lead the marketing practice at Accenture Song ANZ. He has been with The Monkeys since 2011, serving as managing director for over 10 years. During Michael's tenure, The Monkeys has won numerous local and international awards, including successive Cannes Grand Prix Lions in 2023 and 2024.

Mark Green, Global CEO, Droga5, part of Accenture Song, praised the appointments, saying, "This is a great moment for two truly brilliant people, both of whom I have had the pleasure to work with for many years. Bronwyn was part of why I was keen to join forces with Accenture in the first place. Seeing what Bronwyn helped create with Fjord in Australia was a brilliant insight into the potential of creativity, consulting and technology. Bronwyn will lead Accenture Song into a new era and the team in Australia and New Zealand are in good hands."

Green also expressed his excitement for Michael's new role, stating, "It is great to see leaders grow and expand and it has been a privilege working with Matt Michael for over 14 years. Matt’s elevation to CEO of Droga5 in ANZ is an absolute no brainer and a great reward for someone who has been instrumental in the success of not only The Monkeys but Accenture Song as well. I cannot wait to see where Matt can take Droga5 in ANZ and I look forward to continuing our long partnership."

David Droga, Global CEO, Accenture Song, echoed Green's sentiments, saying, "How lucky to be going from strength to strength in ANZ leadership. Bronwyn's integrated expertise and perspective, coupled with her deep commitment to both our people and our clients, makes her the ideal leader for this next chapter. At the same time, Matt who has a history of leadership and excellence is uniquely poised to lead Droga5, and will shape a local perspective that will undoubtedly have an impact on the agency and its clients globally."