VML, a WPP agency, is expanding its global health network into Australia and New Zealand and appointed Kristina Luburic as the Managing Director for the expansion.

Luburic will join the VML Health Global Leadership Team led by CEO Claire Gillis, and the VML AUNZ Executive Leadership Team led by VML AUNZ CEO, Thomas Tearle. She brings over 20 years of experience in the healthcare communications and pharmaceutical marketing industry and has worked with clients such as Pfizer, Bristol Myers Squibb, Lilly, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Sanofi, Janssen and Novo Nordisk.

"It’s an absolute honour to be joining the global agency network of the year and the number one agency across APAC. Although the ranking and growth rates are important, it’s VML’s unrivalled culture that really pulled me into this role. People are the soul of this business and for me that’s palpable. I’m really looking forward to leading the health offering in the region as there’s never been a greater appreciation of the power of health and medical science as there is right now," said Luburic.

Gillis said she'd already experienced Kristina’s ability to inspire clients and teams first hand.

"She has a generosity of spirit, a natural aptitude for healthcare communications and is genuinely passionate about people. It is her appreciation of the scientific, creative and cultural elements of our business that will be fundamental to our success," said Gillis.

"We’re very excited to welcome Kristina and the wealth of knowledge and experience she brings to our business. As we continue to expand into new areas of growth within the Australian and New Zealand markets, adding health capabilities to our Connected Brand offering was an obvious focus. There’s a huge opportunity to create deeper, more meaningful connections between health brands and people across Australia and New Zealand," added Tearle.