Squeak E. Clean appoints Max Wilkinson to lead music in Australia

Squeak E. Clean has announced the appointment of Max Wilkinson as Head of Music – Australia, reinforcing the company’s continued investment in original music and sonic excellence across the APAC region.

Wilkinson steps into the role following the departure of Karla Henwood, who served as Executive Creative Producer and partner, and was instrumental in establishing the creative standard that defines Squeak E. Clean’s work today. The company wishes her well for her next chapter.

Based in Sydney, Wilkinson will lead Squeak E. Clean’s music strategy across Australia and the broader APAC region, overseeing creative direction, talent development, and music production while working closely with the company’s Australian leadership team, Executive Producer Ceri Davies, and Head of Sound Paul Le Couteur.

Wilkinson joins Squeak E. Clean after a decade at Universal Music Publishing Group, where he led sync initiatives across advertising, film, television, and gaming. During his tenure, he secured placements in major international campaigns whilst collaborating closely with agencies, music supervisors, and brand teams worldwide.

Alongside his publishing work, Wilkinson has built an accomplished career as a composer, producer, and songwriter, with music featured across international television and film. Having spent much of his career in studios, he brings a unique dual perspective-combining creative instinct with a deep understanding of the commercial realities of music in media.

Says Michael Gross, Managing Partner: “Great music companies are built on people who understand both creativity and culture. Max is one of those rare leaders who can move seamlessly between the studio, the artist community, and the client room. That perspective is vital, and it makes him the ideal person to help shape the next chapter of Squeak E. Clean’s work across Australia and APAC.”

Says Ceri Davies, Executive Producer, Squeak E. Clean Melbourne: “We’re thrilled to welcome Max to the team. Coming from a musician and composition background gives him the love and the language to connect the dots when liaising between creative people. We’ve added a few new local Australian composers to our stable, and with the support of the US team we’re really excited about where music is headed. I can’t wait to introduce him around.”

Adds Wilkinson: “Squeak E. Clean has built an incredible reputation for creative music and sound globally. I’m excited to collaborate with the local team and the wider network to continue building something special across Australia and APAC, championing bold ideas and supporting artists in shaping distinctive sonic identities that connect with audiences.”

Together, Squeak E. Clean’s Melbourne and Los Angeles studios form a musical pipeline that bridges continents, cultures, and campaigns, highlighting a powerful opportunity to connect Australia’s advertising industry with the remarkable new wave of homegrown talent redefining the global soundscape.

Squeak E. Clean continues to shape the future of sound for brands that want to make a lasting impact, at home and around the world.