BBDO New York Executives Depart Agency
CEO Emma Armstrong, creative lead Michael Aimette, and client officer Kelli MacDonald have left BBDO New York.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Advertising
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BBDO New York leadership has undergone a significant shakeup with the departures of CEO Emma Armstrong, chief creative officer Michael Aimette, and chief client officer Kelli MacDonald. Tod Sussman and Kat Grib are stepping in to lead the New York office, while Scott Bell will take over creative oversight.
Why it matters
The changes arrive as the agency continues to navigate a turbulent period for the industry, marked by major corporate consolidation and restructuring efforts across its network. The agency confirmed that there will be no direct replacement for the CEO role.
The firm recently faced a massive restructuring after Omnicom acquired IPG for $13 billion, an effort that eliminated 4,000 jobs. Despite these internal changes, the agency successfully reclaimed the Applebee's account in September 2026.
The players
Emma Armstrong
She served as the chief executive officer of BBDO New York.
Michael Aimette
He served as the chief creative officer for the advertising agency.
Kelli MacDonald
She served as the chief client officer at the New York office.
Tod Sussman
He is an executive assuming leadership duties at the agency's New York branch.
Kat Grib
She is an executive taking on leadership responsibilities for the New York office.
The details
The agency announced these personnel shifts to Adweek, signaling a transition in management for the New York hub. Tod Sussman and Kat Grib are assuming new leadership responsibilities, while the firm moves forward without filling Armstrong's former position.
Timeline
BBDO was launched in 1928.
Leadership changed hands in 2024 with Nancy Reyes and Chris Beresford-Hill.
BBDO launched its first repositioning in 30 years in 2025.
The agency reclaimed the Applebee's account in September 2026.
The news regarding agency departures was published on September 30, 2026.
Market Landscape
These executive departures follow a pattern of instability set by the Omnicom acquisition of IPG, which previously saw the retirement of the FCB, DDB, and MullenLowe brands. The changes reflect broader industry consolidation as firms adjust to post-merger operations and shift internal hierarchies.
Clients may experience transitions in account management and creative direction as the new leadership team settles into their roles. These operational changes follow a recent period of volatility that included significant job cuts and the retirement of legacy brands across the network.
The takeaway
The agency is currently in a state of leadership transition as it continues to integrate into the post-merger corporate structure. Clients and stakeholders should monitor the office for further shifts in management strategy or creative priorities.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving agency landscape, visit the Advertising section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Adweek.
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