dentsu has strengthened its New South Wales leadership team with the appointment of experienced media leader Elyse Foley as Managing Director, Media NSW, and the promotion of long-standing dentsu strategist Harriet Swinburn to Head of Strategy, Media NSW.

The appointments reinforce dentsu's commitment to building a connected media business in New South Wales, bringing together strong leadership across client, commercial and strategic functions to drive growth for clients, people and partners.

Foley joins dentsu with more than 15 years of experience across some of Australia's leading media agencies, bringing a strong track record in strategic planning, client leadership, business transformation and people development. Most recently, she served as National Head of Planning at PHD Australia, having previously held senior leadership roles across both PHD and Initiative. Throughout her career, Foley has built a reputation for combining commercial rigour with a people-first leadership style, leading major client portfolios and championing innovative approaches to growth.

In her new role, Foley will lead dentsu's NSW media business, bringing together teams across the state's media offering to drive deeper collaboration, deliver integrated client solutions and continue building a culture grounded in trust, creativity and ambition.

Swinburn has been with dentsu for nearly six years and for the past four years has led the iProspect strategy team as Group Strategy Director. During that time, she has played a pivotal role in shaping strategic direction for clients, helping brands navigate increasingly complex market challenges and delivering strong business outcomes. As Head of Strategy, NSW, she will lead the strategic agenda across dentsu's media brands in the state, working closely with clients and teams to unlock new opportunities for growth.

For Chris Ernst, Chief Practice Officer, Media, the appointments represent an important step in the continued evolution of the NSW business.

"Great businesses are built by great people. As we continue building one connected media business in NSW, it's critical that we have leaders who can bring people together, create clarity and inspire teams to do outstanding work for our clients."

"Elyse is an exceptional leader. She combines sharp commercial thinking with genuine care for people, and she has an incredible ability to build trust, create alignment and bring out the best in those around her. She's exactly the kind of leader we need as we continue shaping the future of our NSW media business."

"Harriet's appointment is equally exciting. She has consistently demonstrated outstanding strategic leadership throughout her time at dentsu, helping clients navigate complex challenges while strengthening our strategic capabilities across the business. Hattie is deeply respected by her peers and clients alike, and I'm delighted to announce her appointment as Head of Strategy, New South Wales.”

Foley said the opportunity to help shape the future of the NSW business and its people was a key factor in her decision to join dentsu.

"What drew me to dentsu is the ambition of the business and the opportunity to build something together. There is a genuine commitment to collaboration, creativity and helping people do the best work of their careers."

"I've always believed that sustainable growth comes from strong relationships, shared accountability and creating environments where people can thrive. NSW is home to an extraordinary team and some of the country's most ambitious brands. I'm excited to partner with our people and clients as we co-create the next phase of growth together."

Swinburn said she was excited to take on the expanded leadership role and continue building dentsu's strategic capabilities in the market.

"I've spent nearly six years at dentsu and have had the opportunity to work with incredibly talented people across the business. What excites me most about this role is the chance to further strengthen how strategy connects creativity, media, technology and customer experience to solve client challenges and drive growth."

"The pace of change facing brands today is significant, and the need for clear, commercially grounded strategic thinking has never been greater. I'm looking forward to working with our teams and clients to help them navigate that complexity and unlock new opportunities."

These appointments reflect dentsu's continued investment in leadership, capability and integration, strengthening its ability to deliver connected solutions and sustainable growth for clients in an increasingly dynamic market.

- ENDS –­