OMD hires Smyth for digital planning

Smyth, previously digital strategist at Wieden+ Kennedy, will start at the Omnicom media agency next week, reporting to OMD head of digital Martin Shaw.

He will work with the agency's strategy department and take responsibility for leading OMD's digital thinking, putting a focus on delivering cost-effective solutions for online brand building campaigns.

Matt Simpson, head of digital at OMD Group, said that the appointment is in response to a growing need to look at digital brand advertising for many of the agency's FMCG and blue chip clients, which include McDonald's, Reckitt Benckiser and Vodafone. In July, OMD UK added Channel 4's online planning and buying business to its offline account.

Before joining Wieden+ Kennedy in 2006, Smyth was at digital agency I-Level for six years, where he first worked with Shaw. "He's a sharp, original thinker, a team player and a great guy to work with," said Shaw. "I'm looking forward to him challenging our digital thinking."

Smyth's appointment comes two weeks after OMD Group hired Mark Mitchell as its new head of search.

Mitchell, who was previously at digital marketing company The Search Works, has been hired to oversee paid and natural search across the group. His new role will include developing OMD's strategic approach to search, as well leading new business pitches. He will work across OMD UK, Manning Gottlieb OMD and OMD International.