Credle returns to NYC as FCB’s Global Chief Creative

Susan Credle, FCB’s new global creative chief

After six years in Chicago advertising, Leo Burnett US chief creative chief Susan Credle will head back to New York to assume one of the adworld’s most exclusive positions – and one held by very few women.

 

Credle will join FCB Worldwide as global chief officer.  She will take six months off, leaving Chicago to relocate to New York, where she worked in advertising for 24 years.

At the same time, Jonathan Harrise, FCB’s global chief creative officer since 2006, will become FCB Worldwide chairman.

 

The announcement was made today by FCB Worldwide CEO Carter Murray, who calls Credle his “creative partner.” Carter, who joined Interpubic Group’s FCB in 2013, like Credle at Burnett, has been making major changes that has resulted in a new reputation and profitable new busines. 

 

The search for Harries successor started a year ago. “The moment we met Susan we both both felt that she would be the perfect creative leader, given our ambition of being a true creative/business partner to our clients to help change consumers’ behavior,” Murray said.

Credle said she’s determined and committed to partnering with Murray to create that culture globally.

 

“I believe what we do in the advertising industry makes a difference. And, I have learned that for us to make a difference, three elements must be present. People, place and purpose. These are the three reasons I am now joining FCB as part of the global leadership team,” said Credle. 

 

Credle, a native of Chapel Hill, N.C., joined Leo Burnett in 2009 after 24 years at BBDO New York, rising from receptionist to copywriter and creative director, and ultimately EVP/ECD.

 

Leo Burnett is “quickly seeking and aggressively” to find Credle’s replacement.  “Susan has built up a powerful group of creative leaders here at Leo, and we’re confident that they won’t skip a beat. But today, our focus is wishing Susan the best with lots of Leo love,” said Rich Stoddart, CEO/Leo Burnett North America, in a statement.