Havas Media Group has announced the appointment of Karl Wu as chief executive officer for Greater China.

Wu will be based in Bejing and he will be responsible for Havas Media and Arena Media as well as Havas Group agencies Socialyse, Affiperf, Ecxelis and Mobext.

“I have been on both sides of the table, and I can see the changes needed for our industry to deliver better customer value,” commented Wu on the appointment.

“Havas Group not only has the vision and strategy but has also started executing to that vision. The Havas Village integration is an example of the many initiatives that will ultimately re-shape our industry.  I am excited about what the future holds and looking forward to my new role.”

Wu has held senior roles both on the agency and client side, most recently as chief operation officer of Mediacom Chin whilst also acting as Asia Pacific managing director for one of the agency’s largest clients, Volkswagon. Prior to joining the group, Wu worked for Nokia, Dentsu Aegis Media and Publicis Vivaki, as well as Intel and NBA.

Wu will report to the global executive committee represented by Havas Media Group deputy global managing director Christophe Cases, who is stepping down as chief executive officer of Greater China.

“We are delighted to have Karl as CEO for Greater China,” said Cases. “He is a very important hire for us and integral to our ambition for this market as we strengthen our client-centred collaborative model. Karl brings with him an international mindset and deep knowledge of not only China market but Asia Pacific as a whole.

“His experience in leadership roles both on the agency and the client side will be a definite asset as we move our business to next level of growth.”

Havas Media Group opened four new European offices earlier in the month.