We Are Social announces new chief strategy officer

BY Matthew Leong

September 4, 2024 9:39

We Are Social announces new chief strategy officer

Creative agency We Are Social has officially appointed a new chief strategy officer for its team.

Richard Parker comes into We Are Social after spending more than 12 years at indie creative agency, Edge. The bulk of Parker’s time there saw him serve as the company’s national executive strategy director and partner. Prior to that, he was the agency’s director strategy and head of strategy after moving from London.

While in the UK, Parker established himself as a content and social pioneer, championing the use of both mediums “to engage communities, provoke conversation, and drive earned media”.

With expertise covering content strategy, customer experience, brand, digital and communications, Parker has contributed acclaimed work for huge brands, including Bupa, AAMI, Amazon, Estee Lauder, Optus, Moccona and more.

Parker’s gig at We Are Social will see him serve as team leader for paid media specialists, strategists and research professionals, along with contributing to the organisation’s ongoing direction.

“Aussies now spend more time on social media than they do on TV,” Parker said when speaking on his new job.

“It’s a key space for brand engagement, for consumer interaction, for online shopping experiences and, increasingly, an alternative to search engines—enabling research and discovery.

“It’s popular across all age demographics, and it’s constantly evolving to meet changing social, cultural and consumer needs.

“Social should be leading the marketing conversation, and forming the cornerstone of marketing strategies. Against this backdrop, the opportunity to join Suzie and the team of social experts at We Are Social was a no-brainer.”

When asked about the addition of Parker to her team, We Are Social’s chief executive officer, Suzie Shaw, praised the marketing expert on his strategic expertise and track record of work.

Shaw said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Richard to the team. His expertise in socially-led marketing, combined with his analytical curiosity and strategic acumen, make him the ideal leader to drive our vision forward.”

“Richard’s track record in tackling complex strategic challenges and executing detailed, systematic programs is impressive and his ambition to push boundaries and deliver outstanding results really aligns with our goals.

“I’m excited about what we’ll accomplish together.”