CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi Guangzhou and Hong Kong Pully Chau resigns

Justin Billingsley (pictured), CEO, Saatchi & Saatchi Greater China, will act as CEO for the ageny's operations in Guangzhou and Hong Kong until a successor is named.

An internal message sent to all internal staff from Billingsley said: “Saatchi & Saatchi are excited about our very bright future in China. This future can only be achieved as One China with One Team and One Dream. It is essential that we share a common vision, a commitment to creative excellence and that we nurture our people and live the Saatchi & Saatchi values.“

Billingsley will be spending the majority of his time in Guangzhou for the next two months to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible, and that the agency continues to grow its South China operations and is ready for new local leadership.

Edmund Choe, China chief ceative officer, or Michelle Tsui, China fnancial controller, or Billingsley will work from the agency's Guangzhou offices until a successor is appointed.

“I have communicated this news to our clients in Guangzhou today and will be meeting personally with many of them in the coming days. Your role during this change is clear - keep doing what you do best: win new business, delight our clients and help each other do more better. As I said earlier this week the period from now to Chinese New Year is critical to our 2010 success. Let's keep up the great momentum we are enjoying right now to focus and succeed,” the internal staff message said.

Billingsley declined to comment further.