Expansion will Deliver Scale to Agency’s Global Client Set
Essence, a global data and measurement-driven agency and part of GroupM, today announced it has opened four new offices in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Jakarta and Melbourne, bringing its APAC office count to ten. The agency is rapidly expanding into a full-service agency, following GroupM’s increased investment in Essence from a geographic, talent and capabilities standpoint.
Recognizing its global clients are seeking data-centric, in-market solutions to solve their greatest business challenges, Essence is ramping up APAC operations to deepen the connections that brands have with local audiences. Specifically, the agency will leverage its unique understanding of data science, objective media and captivating experiences to deliver a holistic approach to measurement-driven marketing.
Over the past three years, increased client demand for data-led technology solutions and traditional capabilities in APAC has significantly impacted Essence’s growth in the region. The agency started out with just four employees in its original Singapore office in 2013. Since, it has opened offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Shanghai, Delhi and Seoul and has grown its headcount to nearly 300.
Essence made its debut in India via its Delhi office in 2016. All India operations are under the leadership of Anand Chakravarthy, Managing Director, Essence India. Chakravarthy reports to T. Gangadhar, Chairman of Essence India, and Kyoko Matsushita, CEO, Essence APAC.
The opening of Melbourne marks the agency’s second office in Australia following its 2016 launch in Sydney. Jovy Gill, Managing Director of Essence in Australia, will continue to lead Essence’s growth proposition in both locations.
The launch of Essence Jakarta marks the agency’s entry into Indonesia. Kunal Guha, Managing Director of Essence Central Asia will drive the agency’s presence in Jakarta.
“Essence is a key element in our continued transformation, leadership and growth as a group in the region,” said Mark Patterson, CEO, GroupM Asia-Pacific and Chairman, GroupM China. “This next phase of expansion is great news for Essence and its clients, and GroupM will continue to invest in and support Essence in further enhancing its unique product and service offerings across Asia-Pacific.”
“APAC continues to be our fastest-growing region and a huge priority for us as an agency,” said Kyoko Matsushita, CEO, Essence APAC. “As our clients continue to scale their businesses across channels and continents, we need to do the same. I’m grateful that GroupM has helped us transform into the global, full-service agency partner our clients need right now, and for the robust leadership team we have in place to shepherd this next wave of growth in the region.”