After 20 years at the helm of Environics Communications, Bruce MacLellan is handing over the presidential reigns.
Paul Lockhard
Paul Lockhard, former VP and GM at digital agency EQ Works, will become president of Environics as of Oct. 6. MacLellan will take on the role of chairman and CEO.
“Last year, I started reflecting on how long I’ve been in the job and the evolution of the business,” said MacLellan. “I have always believed that transitions should happen at a time of strength, not in a period of crisis. So I decided that although I wanted to continue working, I should look at how to create a new approach and hand off the president’s role.”
Lockhard’s hiring reflects Environics’ increased focus on digital and creative capabilities. In June, the firm launched a new digital marketing agency, Agnostic. Last year, it hired ad industry vet Stephen Creet as creative director.
“Paul’s addition really fuels our move to become a new type of agency, covering the span of earned, owned and paid services,” said MacLellan. “All roads are leading to digital and he’s going to bring a new perspective there, as well as enhance our integrated offering to our clients.”
The new president “has good agency management experience, client-side experience from working at Labatt Breweries and strong digital experience. To me, the package that he represents is very strong.”
MacLellan said he will “be a sounding board” for Lockhard and help him transition into the role. Meanwhile, MacLellan’s new role as chairman and CEO will allow him to work on strategic opportunities for the firm and “special situations where I can assist our clients.”
