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Saatchi & Saatchi Canada announces the appointment of Alister Adams as its new president, effective January 1st 2025. Alister assumes the role following the retirement of Stuart Payne, who steps down after an illustrious 30-year career in marketing and a remarkable 17 year tenure with the agency.

Under Stuart’s leadership the agency experienced meaningful and consistent growth, delivering impressive results and forging strong partnerships with key clients such as Toyota, Lexus, The Four Seasons, TD, Mondelez, Nikon, and Haleon, to name a few. He led the acquisition of TPM, as well as creating  Synergize, which was just recognized by Google as AI Search Agency of the Year.

Reflecting on his tenure, Stuart Payne said, “Leading Saatchi has been an absolute honour. I am grateful for the incredible team and clients I’ve worked alongside. My time with Publicis Groupe has been rewarding in so many ways, as collectively we’ve driven exceptional growth – following the implementation of our country model – all while building strong friendships that will endure long beyond my time here. Saatchi’s future could not be brighter, as Alister's background and skillset make him the perfect successor."

Alister steps into the role having spent 25 years with Saatchi’s sister agency, Publicis Canada. During his tenure Alister spearheaded the launch of Razorfish Canada while serving as MD and Chief Digital Officer for Publicis Toronto. His expertise in digital innovation positions him to lead the agency into its next growth phase, continuing its commitment to transformative client results.

Andrew Bruce, CEO of Publicis Groupe Canada, expressed confidence in the transition, stating, “Alister is a proven performer, with an admirable reputation for marketing transformation. Under his leadership, Saatchi & Saatchi Canada is about to embark on an evolution that will unlock endless opportunities for our people and the clients they serve. We owe Stuart a debt of gratitude for his leadership and collaboration over the years. And while he will be missed, his mark on Saatchi and the Groupe at large, is indelible.”

Alister Adams expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Saatchi is an iconic brand with a rich history in creativity. It is a privilege to lead the agency moving forward and I am thankful to Stuart for the agency he’s built and the strong foundation that has been set. January 1st cannot come soon enough!”

As Saatchi & Saatchi Canada embraces this transition, the company extends heartfelt gratitude to Stuart Payne for his dedication and leadership, and warmly welcomes Alister Adams to his new role.