Strategic Expansion at Havas Host: Welcoming Kelly Larken and Mike Alhadeff
In a significant move to strengthen its leadership cadre, Havas Host has announced the addition of two senior professionals to its team. Kelly Larken joins as the new Group Account Director, and Mike Alhadeff steps in as the Planning Director, both bringing a wealth of international experience to the Australian agency.
Kelly Larken: A Blend of Creativity and Leadership
Kelly Larken, whose career spans across major global brands like Coca-Cola and Unilever, brings her expertise in driving culturally impactful and effective work to Havas Host. Her prior role as group account director and business director at Anomaly London has equipped her with a diverse skill set, poised to enhance Havas Host’s client portfolio.
Ant More, Havas Host Managing Director, expressed his enthusiasm for Larken’s decision to join the team: “We couldn’t be happier that Kelly chose Havas Host when moving to Australia from London. Her passion for creating not only interesting work, but effective work, was obvious from the moment we met. We can’t wait to see the work we create together and are looking forward to the energy she’ll bring to the team.”
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Larken shared her excitement about the new opportunity: “I am thrilled to be starting this new chapter with Havas Host. From our very first meeting, it was evident that their ambitions match my own: to make culturally impactful work that produces disproportionate results for our clients. It’s a privilege to be joining such a talented bunch of people, and I’m looking forward to seeing what success we can create together.”
Mike Alhadeff: A Visionary Strategist Joins the Fray
Mike Alhadeff, joining as Planning Director, is celebrated for his innovative strategies and his role in leading British FMCG brands to new heights. His tenure at AMV BBDO London as a senior strategist and his recognition as one of 2022’s top 10 trailblazers by Campaign UK spotlight his exceptional talent.
Alyce Gillis, Head of Strategy at Havas Host, remarked on Alhadeff’s appointment: “From the moment we met Mike we knew he’d be a great fit with Havas Host. Not only does he have a great track-record and excellent experience, but he is someone who has already demonstrated boundless enthusiasm for the kind of culture-driven work that we’re passionate about making at Havas Host.”
Alhadeff shared his enthusiasm for his new role: “I’m really excited to be joining Havas Host. Even from the very first Teams calls back in the UK, I sensed an energy from the team where they never settle for second best, and now that I’m here, I can’t wait to make some of the best work of my career.”
Charting a Progressive Future
Strategic appointments of Larken and Alhadeff are part of Havas Host’s broader initiative to drive forward its business momentum. The agency, under the leadership of Gayle While, has seen significant developments, including the promotion of Ant Moore to MD, the appointment of Justin Ruben to ECD, and securing IKEA as a client. Larken and Alhadeff’s roles are pivotal in this journey, promising a dynamic and innovative future for Havas Host.
