Starcom has appointed a new general manager in Melbourne and managing director in Sydney.

Michael Leeds has taken over in as GM in Melbourne. Leeds has been with the company for the previous 12 years in varying roles, the most recent being group business director.

Leeds worked on clients including Mars, General Motors Premium, Suncorp Group, Victoria Government and Snooze. He was involved with Mars ‘Strauchanie’ campaign and launched Hummer in Australia.

“Michael has been an incredibly loyal employee, has developed outstanding client and team leadership skills and is widely respected by the media industry. I congratulate Michael on achieving this promotion and look forward to a successful year for Starcom Melbourne,” said Starcom COO Chris Nolan said.

In Sydney, Bob Goodge is taking over as managing director of Starcom. Goodge has been at Starcom for a decade, previously as national client management and investment director. In this role Goodge led annual rate negotiations which represent more than $700 million in client expenditure.

“Bob’s promotion recognises the significant contribution he has made to growing the business and his strong client relationships. He is a passionate Starcom advocate, and will be a key driver of realising the Starcom vision for our business in this critical Sydney market. We’re looking forward to building on what was a very successful year in 2009 under difficult economic circumstances,” said Starcom CEO John Sintras.