Pattison enters digital arena with i-level

mad.co.uk

25/01/2007

In a sure sign of intent, ILG Digital, the holding company for i-level and Generator Consulting, has enticed former PHD founder David Pattison to take the helm as chief executive.

ILG is already the UK’s largest independent digital marketing services group, but the new appointment highlights significant plans for expansion, both at home and abroad.

Pattison (pictured) stepped down from his position as CEO of PHD Worldwide in November after more than 17 years at what became Omnicom’s second agency network.

He was widely tipped to take up another position within the Omnicom group but today’s announcement shows the ‘P’ in PHD is looking to make his mark in the digital arena.

The hiring of the international marketing veteran of more than 25 years is a coup for ILG founders Charlie Dobres and Andrew Walmsley. He will take the lead role in the strategic development of the group while managing director Faith Carthy will manage day-to-day operations.

Pattison said: “After 17 years in one company I was very open minded as to what to do next. Digital is the new frontier of marketing and i-level and Generator have always been at the vanguard of the industry. The market opportunity is huge, so I couldn’t be more excited at the scale of this venture and I’m really looking forward to working with Andrew, Faith Carthy (Group MD) and the rest of the team. Along with Charlie they have built a brilliant business that is highly respected.”

Pattison’s arrival also brings a change in roles for Walmsley and Dobres. Walmsley will become deputy chairman, supporting non-executive chairman John Bartle while Dobres will to move to an advisory non-executive role.

Walmsley said: “No one should underestimate our ambition here – what’s been created so far is the leaping-off point for radical new developments in our business. David is an outstanding leader on a global stage, and his experience is going to be vital for the next stage in our development.”

Launched in April 1999, current i-level clients include the centralised account for Central Office of Information (COI), Orange, The AA, BSkyB, smile and William Hill. Billing last year were in the region of £80 million.

Generator Consulting specialises in providing strategic digital advice and clients include BSKYB, GCap Media and Guardian Unlimited.