VML has officially hit Perth following the merger of WPP agencies VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson. The launch event, held at The Reveley, was attended by over 120 clients, suppliers, and media representatives.

Adam Kennedy has been appointed as the Managing Director of VML in Perth, in addition to his current role as Managing Director of VML in Brisbane.

It comes as Gavin Bain, a long-standing figure in the agency, announced his departure after a 15-year tenure. Bain will leave the agency in August. Melanie Wiese, Chief Strategy Officer, has also exited the business.

Andrew Kolb has been appointed as the Head of Strategy for Perth and Brisbane, while Stu Turner has been named as the Executive Creative Director across both markets. Barry Walker will serve as the Acting Managing Partner and Head of Business Transformation in the Perth office, and Ellie Quinti, who was appointed in January, will continue in her role as Client Services Director.

"I leave the agency with the fondest of memories, and proud of what we collectively achieved across the 15 years of Meerkats, Wunderman Thompson and now VML. It’s the right time for me to exit the business after supporting the VML integration, which is now complete and ready to roll. My thanks to the whole VML team, our amazing clients, and to the many team members and friends that have been so supportive across the years," said Bain.

CEO of VML AUNZ, Thomas Tearle, said: "Gavin’s contributions during the merger have been invaluable. Over our time working together, we've become good friends—he’s a fantastic guy and will be missed by us all! We wish him all the best in his future endeavours and will cheer him on as he embarks on his next chapter. As we move forwards post-merge, we are incredibly optimistic for our business in Perth and can’t wait to build on the Meerkats/Wunderman Thompson legacy. We are thrilled to welcome Adam to his expanded role, confident that his leadership will bring a new era of value to our clients in Perth and WA. Following the successful unification of the Sydney and Melbourne offices in 2021, we're sure this structure will flourish in Brisbane and Perth with Adam at the helm too."

"I feel very privileged to lead the incredibly talented team at VML in Perth, alongside my existing team in Brisbane. Gav and Mel have created a lasting legacy. I can’t wait to build on this with Barry, Ellie and the entire VML team, unlocking future growth of our clients through VML’s fully connected capabilities," said Kennedy.