BBH USA has appointed Steven Panariello as its chief executive officer. Based in New York City. Panariello will lead the agency in the U.S. to advance its momentum in delivering culture-defining campaigns and creative excellence for brands including Smuckers, Netflix, Samsung and Heineken.
Panariello will work alongside BBH USA’s chief creative officer Erica Roberts, chief strategy officer Samantha Deevy, and chief marketing officer Lindsey McNabb.
Panariello joins from BBDO New York where he most recently served as managing director. He led the agency through consistent evolution by modernizing creative output and leading key client relationships. He also drove growth at scale across BBDO’s clients including Bacardi Ltd, Pedigree, M&Ms, Snickers, Wells Fargo, and FedEx. Additionally, his strategic vision for BBDO NY helped lead to their multiple Webby recognitions as Agency of the Year and producing work consistently recognized at the Cannes International Festival of Creativity, D&AD, and The One Show. While overseeing the global portfolio of Bacardi Ltd, he helped make it the most creatively awarded spirits brand. Before BBDO, Panariello held roles at Droga5, Naked Communications, and TBWA.
“BBH has a reputation for delivering unbridled creativity and brave ideas that revive brands–it’s a privilege to join the agency during a time of significant momentum and evolution,” Panariello said. “I’m excited to lead the BBH team in continuing to put the ‘zag where others zig’ philosophy to work and driving more transformation for more of our partners.”
Carla Serrano, chief strategy officer of Publicis Groupe, said, “BBH USA plays a special role at Publicis Groupe with its iconic creative pedigree. We are thrilled to have Steven lead the charge in its next chapter of modern expansion and acceleration. Panariello will guide the agency in its next era of growth, reinforcing the agency’s reputation as a leader in breakthrough creativity.”
Director John Larigakis Joins Strike Anywhere For His 1st U.S. Spot Representation
Strike Anywhere has added filmmaker John Larigakis to its talent roster, marking his first U.S. commercial representation. He continues to be repped in Canada by production house BOLDLY.
Larigakis first established himself on the agency side of the business where he spent 15 years, including serving as a sr. art director at DDB Canada and then a creative director at 123w before making a seamless transition to directing commercials..
Conceptual and highly art-directed, Larigakis’ style focuses on comedic surrealism grounded in reality. By counterbalancing the outlandish and colorful setting with deadpan performances, the key to his commercials is the metaphorical twist on the core concept, ultimately yielding a funny film. His stylistic vision is often brought to life through custom props, 3D animation, physical comedy, and practical effects to craft imaginative environments and memorable characters.
As a director, Larigakis recently won a Berlin Commercial Award for his work with Extra Gum. He’s also helmed films for brands like Starbucks, Nintendo Switch, Playland, and Sandman Hotels. Throughout his career in advertising, Larigakis has developed work that has won six Cannes Lions, 12 One Show Pencils, six D&AD Pencils, and six Clios.
“I’m a big fan of Strike Anywhere’s approach, their mix of strong advertising and film projects, and most importantly, the team,” remarked Larigakis. “They are genuinely passionate about helping directors grow and develop their careers, and I’m at a stage where I’m excited to continue crafting my skills in new areas.”
Ryan Simon, founding partner of Strike Anywhere, added, “At Strike Anywhere, comedy is key to company growth, and we’re elevating the game by joining forces... Read More