Mark Tutssel, executive chairman of Leo Burnett Worldwide, is retiring. Throughout his 34 years with the company, Tutssel established himself as one of the most awarded creative directors in the industry and cemented Leo Burnett’s reputation as one of the world’s leading creative networks. Tutssel will be staying with Leo Burnett through to the end of June to ensure a smooth transition and will work with Nick Law, chief creative officer of Publicis Groupe, and the Leo Burnett Global Creative Council as it continues to evolve it for the future.
“Mark is a legend and a close personal friend. The body of work that he has presided over is second to none. His impact on the industry and his leadership of one of the world’s great creative agencies cannot be overstated. It will be a privilege to spend the coming months with him making sure that we extend and build on his vision for Leo,” Law said. “I’m confident that the talent and tenacity of Leo Burnett’s creative leadership will continue to help grow our client’s business.”
Tutssel rose through the ranks and in 2006 was appointed global chief creative officer. Under his leadership, Leo Burnett went on to develop world-class campaigns for some of the most iconic brands including Samsung, McDonald’s, P&G and Coca-Cola. Tutssel and Leo Burnett were regularly recognized for industry-leading work, including nine Grand Prix wins at Cannes and consistently ranking in the top five most-awarded agency networks in the world.
In addition to those Cannes Grand Prix honors, Tutssel has over the years won over 600 Cannes Lions, three Titanium Lions, four Glass Lions, the first ever D&AD White Pencil, two D&AD Black Pencils, six Clio Grand Prix, four Grand LIA Awards, four One Show Best of Show Pencils, two ADC Black Cubes, and two Emmy Awards. He is one of a select group of creative directors to serve as a Cannes Lions jury president five times. He is the man behind such famous campaigns as WWF’s “Earth Hour,” Samsung’s “Ostrich” and John West’s “Bear Fight.”
Tutssel said, “Over the last 13 years, it has been a tremendous honor and responsibility to lead Leo Burnett Worldwide creatively. The industry is experiencing unprecedented change, and it seems like the right moment to turn the page to the next chapter of my life. I will leave Leo Burnett with the greatest pride and love for its people and their commitment to the power of creativity. It has fueled me as well as many fortunate brands over the years and I am grateful.”
Publicis Groupe CEO Arthur Sadoun added, “I want to thank Mark for his commitment to Leo Burnett’s people and creative excellence. His passion and ambition in creativity is an inspiration to all of us in Publicis Groupe.”
