Independently owned agency Cundari has hired Todd Hummel as vice-president, digital. In this role, he leads the strategic direction and execution of the communication agency’s digital development practice and its efforts.
The digital team currently includes approximately 15 core developers, a three-person strategy team and a few project managers.
This leadership appointment comes as the agency’ chief technology officer Wayne Gomes shifts his focus to a new internal research and development group within the agency called R&D and Innovation.
“I think that’s a great offering to any client, when you can actually talk from a technology and innovation standpoint,” said Hummel.
As he settles into his new role, Hummel said he is meeting with clients and discussing what Cundari’s digital practice can offer from a digital and technology standpoint. In terms of themes emerging from these conversations and what clients are looking for, he said, “Without a doubt, social media is top on everyone’s mind these days as far as where it plays in the marketing communications space.”
He added that technology is coming to the forefront as well during these conversations. “Clients are asking for innovative ways to communicate, whether it be mobile or social media, it’s the technology and getting it out there to communicate with their consumers.”
Hummel, most recently with Publicis Modem as group digital director, has more than 15 years of experience at integrated communications agencies. He has led digital and social media campaigns for brands including Labatt Breweries, Indigo Books and Music and Rogers Communications.
Other senior appointments were also recently made at Cundari. Two senior directors have joined the agency: Wade Makarus is group account director in charge of the Subway, Firkin and Rust-Oleum accounts; and Larisa Roce is senior account director in charge of the Ivey and Northern Ontario Tourism accounts.
Also, Theresa Freel has stepped in as controller. She is supervising Cundari’s accounting and financial operations.
With offices in Toronto and Montreal, Cundari works in a variety of disciplines that include research, strategic planning, advertising, experiential and digital.
