M&C Saatchi picks outsider to be global chief executive for Passions and PR arm

M&C Saatchi Group has hired Robin Clarke, global executive vice-president at cultural marketing agency 160over90, as the global chief executive of its Passions and PR specialism, a new role for the agency.

Clarke will join the agency’s executive leadership team in the autumn and report to the group’s global chief executive, Zaid Al-Qassab. He will also work closely with Richard Thompson, who is chair of the specialism.

In addition, Clarke will be responsible for M&C Saatchi Group's activities across its Sport and Entertainment businesses, as well as its PR business, Talk. He will collaborate with regional leaders to develop an integrated market approach and seek opportunities to grow M&C Saatchi’s presence in sport, music, film, lifestyle and other cultural engagement areas.

Clarke has almost 25 years' experience in the sports and entertainment industry. His career began in sports hospitality sales and has included roles at Starcom and Publicis Sport and Entertainment.  He joined 160over90 as senior vice-president international in 2018, working with brands such as DP World, Visa, AB InBev and Marriott.

Zaid Al-Qassab said: "We are delighted to welcome Robin. His extensive experience, strategic mindset and deep industry connections make him the perfect leader to drive our vision forward. We are confident that under his guidance, the Passions and PR specialism will continue to thrive and deliver exceptional results for our clients."

Clarke previously worked for M&C Saatchi in 2003 as senior business manager. 

He said: "I am incredibly excited to return to M&C Saatchi and lead the Passions & PR specialism. The agency's reputation for creativity and pushing boundaries is second to none, and I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and get to work with the talented teams to achieve incredible things for our clients."