Sampson’s move to Y&R sees Michelle Jiang promoted to MD at Saatchi & Saatchi Beijing

Following on from yesterday’s news that Charles Sampson was leaving Saatchi & Saatchi Beijing the agency has announced that Michelle Jiang is to replace him as Managing Director.

Jiang (left) has been with Saatchi & Saatchi in China for eight years, first in account management working on P&G in the Guangzhou office and most recently as Client Services Director in Beijing leading all accounts. Prior to joining Saatchi & Saatchi Jiang held other brand marketing and advertising roles in Guangzhou after graduating with a Masters in Advertising and Marketing from Leeds University.

“I am proud that we can manage succession from within our strong team. Michelle is and has been a strong Saatchi & Saatchi leader and this promotion is a natural step in her career. With her creative partner in ECD Dean Sciole, Michelle will lead our growing Beijing office to continue to fill the world with Lovemarks,” said Justin Billingsley, CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi Greater China.

He added “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Charlie (Sampson) for his nine years leading the Beijing office. I have equal parts sadness at his departure and excitement for him in his new challenge, and every one of us thank him and wish him the best. Charlie built a great team including preparing that team for effective succession. 2011 is going to be another great year for Saatchi & Saatchi Beijing.”

In 2010 Saatchi & Saatchi Beijing have enjoyed high profile account wins such as Carlsberg and Beijing Lotteries – these clients have joined the award-winning client family in Beijing that includes HP, Ikea and Renren.com.

“I am very proud to accept this role – we have been working towards this for some time and I am ready for the challenge,” said Michelle Jiang. “I am lucky to have such a strong team to lead here in Beijing and have working in partnership with Dean for five years. I thank Charlie for his leadership and mentorship, and for leaving us in such a strong position.”

Michelle will report to Billingsley in her new role and her promotion is effective immediately.