Omnicom Media Group UK announces launch of Newcastle hub

London (December 13, 2023) – Omnicom Media Group (OMG), the media services division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC), has announced the launch of a new location in Newcastle.  The launch will further strengthen OMG’s presence across the UK, accelerate the group’s market-leading digital, data and tech offering, and create up to 170 jobs over the next three years. It will be led by newly appointed Managing Director, Pete Coates, who joins from iProspect UK. 

OMG Newcastle, building on the group’s presence in Manchester and London, will enable clients to connect with OMG’s industry leading capabilities across the UK. Alongside core media planning and buying services, the office will focus on further accelerating OMG’s future-fit offering across digital, data and analytics, and commerce – recognising the significant expertise of the digital professionals living, working and studying in the city.

Coates’ appointment is a clear indication of this commitment. Formerly Managing Director at iProspect UK, Coates brings over 15 years’ worth of experience delivering brand value and significant business growth to clients through strategic, customer-centric, performance-driven solutions. Coates will report into Laura Fenton, CEO, Omnicom Media Group UK.

“The Newcastle launch marks an important next step in enabling clients across the UK to leverage OMG’s Agency as a Platform approach, connecting media, content and commerce to deliver better outcomes”, says Fenton. “Pete’s proven expertise and experience in leading integrated regional operations and building high-performing multi-skilled teams, will ensure that OMG Newcastle, its clients, and its talent, are set up for success.”

The office will see up to 170 jobs created for local residents, with a range of entry level roles available as well as more senior positions. OMG UK is forming partnerships with the city’s universities and college groups to help nurture local talent and create new opportunities for graduates and entry level talent.

“Working with businesses and talent at a regional, national and global level to drive transformational change through innovation in product, process and operations, has provided me with invaluable insight into what’s required to create competitive advantage for clients”, says Coates. “As a born and bred Geordie and a graduate of the University of Newcastle, I know first-hand the untapped potential here, particularly in the digital sector.  Bringing the strength and breadth of capability of OMG to the North-East, opening up new opportunities for talent across the region, and leading the development of core digital, data and tech services to deliver this advantage for our clients is beyond exciting”.

Newcastle City Council Cabinet Member for a Thriving City, Cllr Alex Hay, said: “OMG’s investment will provide a significant boost to Newcastle’s economy and further strengthens our position as an international hub for the digital and tech sector.

“The creation of up to 170 new jobs is fantastic news and OMG’s commitment to providing opportunities for residents at all levels will support our vision to build a more inclusive economy in Newcastle. We look forward to working with OMG to maximise the benefits of this investment for our local community.”

OMG Newcastle will begin its first stage recruitment imminently and will be located in the centre of the city.

Coates will begin his new role in January 2024.