Nick Harvey joins Strategy Christchurch

This is a supplied media release.

Nick Harvey is stepping in as managing partner at Strategy Creative Christchurch after almost two decades away from his beloved home town.

He starts this week at Strategy Christchurch, which was founded 25 years ago this year.

Geoff Cranko, who currently heads the studio, will stay on as the Strategy Group managing partner and oversee the growth of the company throughout the world, basing himself in the Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland, Sydney, and Tokyo studios.

“I’m excited to be rolling my sleeves up and get stuck into working in such a dynamic city, for a company with an established history of doing great things here,” Harvey says.

“Strategy is name that carries a lot of mana in the advertising and design world. I’ve always admired the work that comes out of the group and the Christchurch studio has some of the most talented people I’ve met. I’m pleased to be joining such a great bunch."

Harvey left Christchurch for travel and university in 1998 and has since lived in the UK, Dunedin, Melbourne, and Auckland.

He’s worked with clients such as Mercedes-Benz, Samsung, Lacoste, DB, New Balance, Cadbury, Under Armour, Virgin Australia, Schweppes, Renault, Mars, Burger King, Fonterra, 42 Below, and Mazda.

Harvey leaves his Auckland-based role as group business director of experiential at Colenso BBDO to join the Strategy network. He was part of the BBDO group for more than a decade.

“There’s so much to get out of Christchurch both for me in a personal and professional capacity, as well as for my family. I’m so excited that my children will get the same Cantab upbringing I got.”

“The move is also an opportunity to bring the things I’ve learnt around the world back to Christchurch at such an important time for the city.”

Harvey will also bring his track record in fostering strong team cultures.

“I’m all about creating a culture within a team that allows people to do amazing things. My role is to empower those around me to do great work.

“I keep it simple and try not to overcomplicate things. The biggest point for me is ensuring everyone is on the same page and that we share a clear and common vision.”

For group managingpPartner Cranko Cranko, Harvey’s appointment is a major coup.

“Harvey is a talented marketer who understands the perfect balance needed between insightful business strategy and creative ideas. He’ll be an excellent fit here.

“For me, it’s a chance to let go of the baby I’ve grown over the past 20 years and handover the day-to-day running of the Strategy studios to the next generation. It’s time for me to take a more holistic view and grow the Strategy brand globally.”