Roger Zhu joins DDB Group as Vice President to head up Team Volkswagen in Shanghai

DDB China Group has appointed Roger Zhu as Vice-President for Team Shanghai Volkswagen.

As the business team leader on all SVW brands in China, Zhu will focus on the client’s integrated brand and communications strategy ranging from traditional advertising to more innovative digital activation and marketing plus customer relationship management. Zhu will report directly to Richard Tan, President & CEO DDB Group North China.

Born in Shanghai, Zhu is a veteran of the automotive and advertising industries, with 16 years of communications experience. A graduate of Economics in Fudan University, Zhu worked on both FAW-VW and Shanghai General Motors (SGM) extensively, where he was General Manager running the SGM unit at McCann-Erickson Shanghai. Prior to joining DDB China Group, Zhu was on a two-year sabbatical pursuing his EMBA at Olin business school Washington University in St. Louis. He is an expert in system designs, project and operation management, balanced with the sensitivity of managing senior and complex client relationships.

Richard Tan said, “With Roger’s experience and expertise in the automotive industry, he will provide invaluable insights and leadership to our strong SVW team. We are thrilled to have him on board to partner with our clients to tap and navigate the immense potential and growth for the automotive industry in China.”

Zhu added, “I am thrilled to join DDB to unleash the potential in our people, product and partnerships, rooted on innovative creativity for Team SVW.”

Zhu replaces Ross Gearing, Vice-President DDB China Group, who will be leaving DDB China Group to pursue new opportunities that are geared towards his family plans for their next stage in life.