Martin Agency names new CEO

A 21-year veteran of the RVA-based advertising agency, one who worked on accounts like UPS and GEICO, has been named the company’s CEO.

December 14, 2012; 10:50 AM • by Nathan Cushing

The Martin Agency has a new chief executive officer. Yesterday, the ad agency announced that Matt Williams, 45, will serve as CEO beginning in February 2013.

Williams joined The Martin Agency in 1991 as an account executive. Several years later, he joined the strategic planning department where he worked on the accounts of UPS, Saab, and GEICO. The agency earned Effies–awards that acknowledge exceptional work in advertising–on campaigns that Williams has managed, including UPS, GEICO, Signet Bank, and Bank One. In 2005, Williams was named a partner in the company.

“I’m excited and humbled to be named CEO of this remarkable company,” said Williams in a statement. “I look forward to…continuing our quest to make Martin one of the most innovative companies in the world.”

Williams will assume the CEO position from John Adams, who has served as both chairman and CEO of the ad agency since 1995. The agency said Adams will continue his role as chairman of the agency’s executive committee, and will oversee relationships with important clients.

“I’ve worked at The Martin Agency for 39 years and I can say with full confidence that Matt will be terrific as our new CEO and I look forward to working with him to take our company to even greater heights,” Adams said.