New Zealand-based agency Darkhorse has announced a significant change in its leadership structure as part of its expansion strategy in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Co-founder Mike Hewitt is set to relocate from Auckland to Sydney to assume the role of CEO.

The move comes as Darkhorse experiences substantial growth in its offices across Auckland, Sydney, and Singapore.

Darkhorse, which was acquired by Project Worldwide in 2018, shares the aspiration of becoming a true global agency. Project Worldwide is an alliance of 15 agencies operating in 42 markets with over 2000 teammates. Hewitt expressed his excitement about the move and the agency's ambitious plans.

“My family and I are pumped to move to beautiful Sydney and I’m excited for this next step in our agency’s ambitious plan to harness and export the magic of Darkhorse around the world,” said Hewitt (pictured). “Supercharged by Project’s alliance of 15 agencies, 42 markets and 2000+ teammates, we have big plans in store for both our growth and our client proposition.”

Meanwhile, Francesca Kelly will step into the position vacated by Hewitt, becoming the Managing Director NZ. Darkhorse's Executive Creative Director, Liam Taylor, will continue to play a key role in the agency's executive management and global expansion. Taylor sees the regional expansion as a boon for existing clients such as BP, Pernod Ricard, and L'Oreal, who are looking to leverage Darkhorse's ANZ footprint.

“Doubling down on our regional offering is not only exciting for Darkhorse’s trajectory but it strengthens our proposition to existing clients,” Taylor said.

Darkhorse AU has recently won several high-profile accounts, including Sephora, and extended work with existing AU clients such as Jaguar Land Rover and Pernod Ricard. Kelly saw the expansion as an opportunity for the team to work and travel across different markets.

“Our expansion also gives our team more epic opportunities to work and travel across different markets,” Kelly added. “Yet another reason for the industry’s best to join the darkside.”

Founded 12 years ago, Darkhorse offers a multi-disciplinary service including strategy, creative, PR, influence, content, digital, social, and events.