AKQA APAC CEO Brian Vella departs as agency shifts to local leadership model
AKQA Asia Pacific CEO Brian Vella has announced his departure from the company, marking the end of a 24-year journey that began with digital agency DT and evolved through its acquisition by AKQA.
Vella first joined DT in the early 2000s, rising through the ranks from producer to Managing Director to CEO. Following WPP’s 2017 acquisition of DT and its integration into AKQA, Vella took on the role of APAC Managing Partner before being elevated to CEO of AKQA Asia Pacific in December last year.
In a statement shared with Campaign Brief, an AKQA spokesperson said: “In a move that reflects our continued alignment with AKQA’s global strategy, we are evolving from a regional structure to a more locally focused model within APAC — one designed to better serve the unique needs of each market.
“As part of this shift, Brian Vella will be stepping away from the business. We are grateful for Brian’s leadership, dedication, and the lasting impact he has made at AKQA.
“Additionally, Justine Leong has been promoted to Managing Director of Australia, and Jeremy Smart will move from Managing Director to Head of Growth for Australia. Leadership within New Zealand and Japan remains unchanged, providing continuity and strength as we continue to build for the future.”
Vella shared the news of his departure in a reflective LinkedIn post this morning, describing his time with the company as “better than a dream.”
“It’s difficult to put into words what leaving a company after 24 years feels like, but grateful is the one I keep returning to,” writes Vella.
“To have one exceptional leader over this period is special, to have two is extraordinary… Ajaz Ahmed, thank you for trusting me with what was always the most valuable brand in our industry. Reading Limitless all those years ago inspired a dream, and working on your team made it real.”
He also credited former DT founder David Trewern as a formative influence in his early leadership years, and gave thanks to the many clients he collaborated with — including Nike, NAB, Netflix, Toyota, Tourism Australia, Honda, KFC, Officeworks, Optus, and Bunnings.
Over his two decades, Vella helped shape AKQA’s regional offering through a focus on innovation, entrepreneurial thinking and high-performing teams. He noted how proud he is of the many leaders who came up through the business and have gone on to start ventures of their own.
As for what’s next, Vella says he plans to take time to “recharge, reflect and explore new opportunities where design, innovation and commerce meet.”