Batey heads S'pore change

Singapore's advertising scene has undergone a major shake-up

involving three of its most high profile ad men - Ian Batey, Addison

James and Christopher Foo.

Mr Batey, co-founder and shareholder of The Batey Group, is leaving

Singapore at the end of March to live overseas.

He will only be in Singapore one week every three months to check on

local management and advise on strategic issues involving Singapore

Airlines and the Singapore Tourism Board.

Recently, Mr Batey has moved away from the day-to-day running of the

agency, by delegating management responsibility. He has also sold equity

in Batey to WPP.

Meanwhile, Batey MD, Mr James, has left suddenly to become CEO of Lowe

Lintas & Partners replacing Mr Foo, who is pursuing business

opportunities outside of advertising.

Mr James' departure has also sparked a management restructuring at

Batey's Singapore office.

Mr Jon Collins retains his position as chief operating officer of

Batey's overseas operations but becomes chairman, replacing Mr Rick

Scott-Blackhall, now a strategist on SIA. Mr Nick Marrett moves from

deputy MD to COO of the Singapore office.

Rather than appoint a new MD, five senior executives are sharing

management responsibility.

Mr Collins said: "If one of the five does exceptionally well this year

then the person will become chief executive."