Samantha Cescau Named New Head of Strategy of Leo Burnett Chicago

Leo Burnett is delighted to welcome Samantha Cescau to the Leo Burnett executive leadership team. She will partner with Gareth Goodall, Chief Strategy Officer of Publicis Groupe Creative U.S. to advance the strategic development for all Chicago clients. A proven strategic leader, well-versed in working with creative agencies and large-scale, complex clients, Samantha will oversee Leo Burnett Chicago’s strategy department, ensuring the consistent delivery of top-tier, creatively ambitious work driven by highly insightful strategy for Chicago clients including Kellogg’s, Dunkin,’ and Beam Suntory.

“With Samantha, we’re welcoming a leader who not only understands the intricacies of creative excellence but also possesses a deep commitment to fostering creativity and kindness within our organization,” said Gareth Goodall, Chief Strategy Officer. “A winning combination, her experience will not only empower our teams but will also ensure we deliver the strategic excellence required to deliver incredible work.”

Samantha joins the agency from TBWA\Chiat\Day where she was Head of Strategy and has deep experience across a range of industries, including CPG, banking, tech, travel, and automotive. Samantha has also worked for BBH, JWT, Publicis, and consultancy Vivaldi Partners, where she advised senior executives in the areas of strategy, marketing, and innovation.

“I’ve always believed that a nurturing culture holds the power to unlock our fullest potential,” said Samantha. “Leo Burnett functions with a profound sense of purpose and understanding among its clients and people and I’m excited to harness this energy to tackle real-world business challenges through the work.”

Cescau’s appointment marks a meaningful milestone in Leo Burnett’s continued expansion, alongside the recent additions of Chief Operating Officer Liz Taylor and the welcoming of new creative leads, Nick Howard and Nick Stoner.