Nicole Simpson has joined RAPP U.S. as director of DE&I, a newly created position at the agency.
Simpson will ensure that RAPP’s employees feel seen, safe and have a clear path forward for success, and that the work RAPP produces for its clients continues to be inclusive and equitable, representing the diverse communities and people the brands serve. She will also assist in RAPP’s implementation of OPEN 2.0, Omnicom’s action plan for achieving systemic equity throughout its agencies. Simpson will report directly to Devin O’Loughlin, RAPP’s global chief diversity, equity, inclusion and communications officer.
In her previous role as a corporate paralegal and DE&I champion at Omnicom Health Group, Simpson exhibited a passion for building communities which steered her to create “the Black Collective,” the first Black talent recourse group at Omnicom Health Group. As the founder, she moderated a myriad of brave conversations for her network to bring understanding around highly sensitive and charged topics. Simpson naturally eased into the DE&I field through her efforts, both in and outside of Omnicom, serving as a mentor for Rutgers Alumni Connection Program, board member for Racism Has No Home Here, executive sponsor for Black Together, and Mentorship Program lead for AcentO, Omnicom’s Latinx ERG.
“I was ready for a new challenge and very committed to staying within the Omnicom network, so the stars aligned when a DE&I position opened at RAPP,” said Simpson. “The opportunity to work with Devin and this incredible community was more than I could have hoped for. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to step into a role that allows me to do work that is my ultimate passion.”
The Many Hires Jeremiah Wassom As Group Creative Director
Independent agency The Many has added Jeremiah Wassom as group creative director.
Wassom most recently worked a decade at Deutsch LA where, as SVP/creative director, he led the Taco Bell account and won new business for the agency. His agency past also includes AKQA and TBWAChiatDay. His creative work has touched the QSR, video games, automotive, fashion, and culture brand sectors. He also served eight years with the United States Marine Corps.
“Throughout his career, Jeremiah has helmed work that has not only made me personally jealous but has consistently pushed brands to show up in memorable and innovative ways,” said Josh Paialii, head of creative at The Many. “One look at his body of work and you will see his passion for storytelling and craft has raised the bar for entire categories, driving participation with many brands’ most loyal fans. Beyond being a world-class creative director and maker, Wassom is a proven team player and strategic thought leader. He’ll be a great addition to the leadership team at The Many working across all accounts. His role will be immediately felt as he guides and supports each of the creative leads in the department.”
A 20-year creative with agency, brand, and freelance experience, Wassom has forged a creative approach which focuses on crafting engaging connections rather than simply make ads. He sees the need for advertising to mean more, not simply do more.
The Many believes that true business growth is made possible by harnessing the power of participation and partners with brands to forge deeper connections with consumers, cultivate trust and loyalty, and maximize marketing spend and execution. The agency is built around a flexible model that offers a suite of capabilities, including... Read More