Integrated communications and marketing agency Anthem announces the promotions of Johnny Shaw to General Manager and Sarah Geel to Head of Integrated Communications to drive business growth and enhance client services.
Johnny Shaw appointed as General Manager
As General Manager, Johnny will play a pivotal role in leading the day-to-day operations, business development, client strategy, and the overall evolution of Anthem’s service offerings. His focus on team and agency leadership, culture and financial management, new business development, and client excellence align seamlessly with Anthem’s vision for growth.
Johnny will collaborate closely with the agency’s leadership team, working alongside co-founders Jane Sweeney and Carolyn Kerr to enhance Anthem’s integrated communications portfolio.
“Johnny’s appointment marks a crucial step in Anthem’s growth strategy. His proven leadership and deep understanding of our industry position him perfectly to drive operational excellence and client satisfaction,” says Carolyn Kerr, Anthem’s Chief Executive Officer. “His appointment will free Jane and I up to focus on senior client counsel, developing strategies that achieve business outcomes for our clients and continuing to build Anthem and add new products and services.”
As an award-winning senior communications practitioner, Johnny’s experience spans over 20 years across the insurance, banking and finance, transport and infrastructure, technology, healthcare and government sectors from the UK, Europe, Asia and New Zealand. Johnny’s five years as an Executive Director have seen him excel in agency leadership and business management.
“I am thrilled to take on the role and to contribute more significantly to the agency’s success. I’ve witnessed Anthem’s commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving excellence since I joined in 2019. As General Manager, I look forward to furthering our operational efficiency, developing high-functioning teams, and ensuring Anthem remains a leader in integrated communications to benefit our clients,” says Johnny.
Sarah Geel appointed as Head of Integrated Communications
Sarah has proven skill in leading teams of both permanent and contracted staff members and partner agencies. Formalising her role will see her overseeing integrated accounts encompassing corporate and marketing communications, digital marketing, social media, advertising, and paid editorial content. Sarah will play a linchpin role in ensuring a cohesive and effective approach to client messaging and brand positioning and instigating the development of winning strategies for clients across multiple disciplines.
“Renowned for her ability to devise and execute complex campaigns that achieve meaningful objectives, Sarah’s nine -year journey with Anthem has been marked by impactful collaborations and outstanding results. Her extensive experience and track record position her as a key driver of Anthem’s continued success and the ongoing evolution of our integrated communications activity,” says Carolyn.
Sarah brings a wealth of experience and expertise with a background in developing award-winning marketing communications for major brands, including a five-year tenure at Vodafone New Zealand, where she directed through-the-line sponsorship campaigns for prominent assets, including the Vodafone Warriors and Vodafone NZ Music Awards.
“Anthem has been my professional home for nine years this week and I’m thrilled to take on the challenge of Head of Integrated Communications. This role allows me to leverage my experience to lead dynamic teams in creating innovative communication strategies for our clients,” says Sarah.
Additional specialist services
“These strategic promotions underscore our commitment to innovation, growth, and client satisfaction. Anthem will continue to set new standards in integrated communications, delivering stellar work through high-functioning teams and innovative communication strategies and implementation.
“Looking ahead, we are gearing up to introduce additional specialist services through team leaders and strategic joint ventures, reaffirming our commitment to providing comprehensive communication solutions across various sectors,” says Carolyn.
