M&C Saatchi has announced that it has a new Australian CEO. Formerly chief operating officer in Ogilvy South Africa, Mike Abel is well known in the global agency sector. The Financial Mail named him Agency Leader of the Year in 2006.

Abel built Ogilvy into the number one agency in South Africa in 2008, both in size and revenue, leading to the company receiving multiple awards.

“We are very pleased to have been able to attract an executive of Mike’s calibre,” says Tom Dery, M&C Saatchi Asia Pacific/US executive chairman.

“One of Mike’s most significant achievements in a stellar career has been the turnaround he achieved for Ogilvy Capetown. The philosophy and approach he demonstrates will be an excellent fit for M&C Saatchi.”

“I would describe myself as highly focused on achieving business goals through developing and maintaining quality relationships with clients and staff,” says Abel.

“I like working with a strong creative product and am very comfortable with driving strategy and supporting the development of new business. I am looking forward to building on M&C Saatchi’s high profile brand.”