Manchester-based creative agency Access has recruited Barry McPhillips, former head of marketing at Communisis plc, to strengthen its global marketing credentials.
McPhillips, whose former senior posts include Head of Design at BDH/TBWA and Creative Director at The Marketing Store Worldwide, joins as Head of Marketing, and brings with him a wealth of experience in a bid to bolster the agency’s offering to new and existing clients.
Access’ Managing Director and co-founder Simon Landi explains: “We’ve seen the market evolving to one of streamlining. Customers are increasingly looking for a single marketing solution and a greater return on investment. We’ve brought in Barry to help us to deliver a more focused approach for clients at every level of our business. His experience working with major global brands in the FMCG and entertainment sectors will help our expansion plans."
Despite being an avid Liverpool fan, McPhillips is thrilled to be part of Access, which overlooks Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium. When asked what attracted him to the post, the new Head of Marketing joked: “Obviously it wasn’t the view! Access has an amazing untapped potential. What made it stand out for me is the company’s ability to solve client problems with its brilliantly developed offerings and solid team. I’ve seen so much flannel behind case studies in my time that it’s refreshing to be joining a set of people who consistently deliver real results for their clients. There’s an outstanding ethos about the place, you can see why staff and client turnover is so low.”
Talking about his role within the agency, Barry added: “My task is to work with the management team to help Access reach its full potential with clients, helping clients to get more value at more points throughout their marketing cycles.
“In the ‘new economy’ there is an unprecedented level of accountability placed on marketing people and it’s up to agencies to out-think the problems more intelligently than ever. Access’ incredibly strong planning, digital, creative and intelligence services makes it attractive to clients that are under increasing pressure to deliver.”
Established in 1999, Access has long established client relationships with Turtle Wax, COI, The Trafford Centre, MOSI, Haydock Park, Neville Johnson and Greater Manchester Police.
MD Simon Landi said: “It’s great to have Barry on board. His calibre, his experience with big brands and his understanding from client side will help us to develop a stronger value proposition for our clients and enable us to move forward in new and exciting directions. It’s a perfect fit between Barry’s experience and our ambitions”.
