Fredrik Gumpel departs Lion & Lion following 5 years as Group CEO: Cheelip Ong set to take over

Lion & Lion, a digital marketing agency under Septeni Holdings, has announced that Fredrik Gumpel (pictured left), Group CEO, will step down from his role after more than five years at the helm. Replacing him is creative partner, Cheelip Ong (pictured right), who will assume the role of Group CEO in early 2025.

During his tenure, Gumpel led Lion & Lion through significant challenges, including navigating a major financial turnaround, the global COVID-19 pandemic, and other unprecedented crises. Under his leadership, the agency overcame substantial adversity, solidified its operational foundation, and emerged stronger and more resilient.

Gumpel said: “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together. Each challenge we faced only strengthened our resolve to innovate and succeed. With the cost base reduced, the organization is agile and competitive, so the task for 2025 is clear: converting pitches into wins to ensure Lion & Lion’s continued growth.”

He added: “Cheelip has been instrumental in our success and embodies the creative excellence and leadership required to steer Lion & Lion into its next chapter.”

Daisuke Suefuji, Septeni Group Senior Executive Officer, said: “Fredrik’s tenure has been nothing short of transformative. He took on the challenge of a significant operational overhaul and successfully repositioned Lion & Lion as a competitive player in the industry. We deeply value his contributions and are confident in Cheelip Ong’s ability to carry forward this momentum. Cheelip’s appointment ensures continuity, trust, and a creative vision aligned with our future ambitions.”