David Tiltman
Mar 25, 2009

JWT Japan sheds 20 staff amid restructure

TOKYO - JWT Japan is shedding 20 staff - around 10 to 12 per cent of its workforce - as it restructures to cope with a decline in spend from multinational clients.

JWT Japan sheds 20 staff amid restructure
The voluntary retirement scheme was confirmed by Tom Doctoroff (pictured), JWT’s area director for North Asia, who said the agency had selected people for the scheme “based on future needs”.

Sources within Japan believe that JWT Japan is looking for new senior management. Doctoroff declined to comment on the rumours, adding that Mark Webster is still in place as CEO of the company.

The company has been reorganised into three groups: one to handle network clients, one for local clients and one for outbound Japanese clients. Each group has its own account leader, planning leader and creative leader. 

Doctoroff confirmed that the agency was looking to build its Japanese client base as global brands shift resources out of the market into countries such as China. 

“Local assignments have growing momentum within JWT, partly due to the efforts of our senior local staff,” he said. “The opportunity lies with moderate-sized Japanese clients. Our future is not going to be lie with the behemoths.”

JWT Japan’s clients include Unicharm and Taylor Made Golf.
Source:
Campaign Asia

Follow us

Top news, insights and analysis every weekday

Sign up for Campaign Bulletins

Related Articles

Just Published

7 hours ago

BYD closes 2024 on top, but can it sustain its EV ...

BRAND HEALTH CHECK: After outpacing Tesla and smashing 2024 sales records, BYD faces its toughest road yet. With 45% EU tariffs and a locked-out U.S. market, can the EV giant supercharge global ambitions or stall under trade barriers?

7 hours ago

Move and win roundup: Week of January 2, 2025

As 2025 kicks off, Campaign rounds up the first major people moves and business wins of the year. From leadership exits to new creative wins, catch all the latest updates in January's first edition.

8 hours ago

What's in, what's out: Marketing trends you need to ...

OUTLOOK 2025: A clear, concise and constantly updated guide for industry trends and predictions—all in one place. Check back often for the freshest updates.