Havas Media has announced further ANZ expansion as part of its ambition to become the region’s most technologically-advanced media agency, creating two new senior roles in the business to increase commercial expertise and implementation across the client portfolio.

John Lynch has joined in the newly created role of national investment director, evolving commercial capabilities across all group media brands over the core media and non-media client portfolio, including content, programmatic and technology services.

Lynch will report to James Zipeure, who has been promoted to the new role of chief operating officer, covering all operational and commercial day-to-day delivery across the group whilst expanding the role across the wider Havas Village group of companies.

“Our position as a forward-thinking challenger network was a key factor in getting John to join Havas media,” commented Zipeure. “As one of the most sought after directors in market it’s fantastic to have him on board. John and I will be working closely in the coming months as we continue to find new ways of unlocking greater opportunities for existing and new clients.”

Zipeure has worked on developing a new media investment strategy and pioneering a fresh commercial model for clients. He has also been involved in setting up divisions in programmatic, social, mobile, performance, data and content, along with the recently launched Havas Sports and Entertainment division.

“Our challenger mentality has allowed us to stay agile and these appointments are testament to that,” said Havas Media Australia chief executive officer Mike Wilson.

“James and John bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their new roles and I look forward to seeing them drive our commercial and content offerings forward in the coming months.”

Havas chairman and chief executive officer Yannick Bollore leads the speaker line-up for this year’s Festival of Media LatAm in Miami – book your tickets here.