Leeds agency CreativeRace has appointed Olivia Downing as creative director.
Downing brings a decorated industry track record to the role: having previously been recognised as one of The Drum’s 50 Under 30 Outstanding Women in Creative, named on Campaign’s Future Leaders List, and highlighted as Creative Equals’ One to Watch. She has also brought her expertise to the industry as a judge for D&AD, the DMA and The Drum Roses and has won Drum Roses Gold, an IPA Bronze Effectiveness Award, aplus the industry-acclaimed competition School of Thought in 2017.
Her experience includes a global brand refresh for Primark and above-the-line integrated campaigns for David Lloyd Clubs, Alton Towers and more, showcasing her strategic range and cultural creative relevance across a wide range of channels for high-profile consumer brands.
She joins CreativeRace from Continuous, part of Uniform group in Liverpool, where she was associate creative director. Having previously worked at TBWA\MCR and other independents, Downing combines a unique blend of big-brand experience and agile, entrepreneurial thinking. A vocal advocate for industry inclusivity, Downing is the founder of CIA: Chicks in Advertising, a support network for women in the creative industries, and was awarded an honorary Master of Arts from Leeds Arts University, where she continues to mentor and lecture students.
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“Leeds has got so much going on right now: I know the city well because of the work I’ve done over the years both with LAU and taking my own event CIA: Chicks in Advertising there,” said Downing. “CreativeRace stood out to me because of its unique personality and drive to unite brands with their buyers. They’ve a fantastic mix of clients, a mesmerisingly talented team, and the values here match the work I strive to create.”
CreativeRace is known for producing high-impact, insight-led work for brands including ASDA, Greggs, Northern, Majestic Wines and more, with over four decades of experience and a full-service offer spanning strategy, creative, content and media.
“Olivia brings the creative intelligence we pride ourselves on, backed by industry recognition and a genuine passion for leadership,” said Richard Flaherty, managing partner. “She’s the perfect fit for where we’re headed: ambitious, collaborative and culturally connected.”
Downing’s appointment marks another step forward for Leeds as an emerging centre for creative excellence, and for CreativeRace as a serious player in the national agency landscape.
