MARKETERS

There’s been some swapping going on in the auto industry. Terry Spyropoulos, previously national communications manager, Ford Motor Company has replaced Larry Futers as Volvo’s VP marketing. Meanwhile, Futers has been lured by his former boss Peter Cummings to Mitsubishi where he will be national manager, marketing. Cummings became Mitsubishi’s president and CEO last year. Back at Volvo, the brand is gearing up for an ‘exciting’ few months, says Spyropoulos. ‘In 2007, we’ll be launching the C30 Coupe into the premium compact segment. Volvo has never had an offering in that market before, so it will take some new thinking on our part to reach that buyer demographic.’

Maria Corsino is now Nike’s retail marketing manager, promoted from national apparel sales manager. She’ll be responsible for executing the brand’s strategy at the retail level.

Former Nestlé marketer Katherine Pudy has joined House of Blues Concerts as director of client services for corporate partnerships. Previously champion, merchandising and promotions at the confectionery giant, Pudy will manage sponsorships through on-site events, media promos and retail executions.

AGENCIES

BBDO Worldwide has tapped Gerry Frascione, president and CEO of the Canadian arm to become president and CEO, BBDO North America, covering Canada, the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico.

ACLC is trying to regain its footing, after losing short-lived CD Gary Westgate, by hiring Tony Miller, former CD at Sharpe Blackmore Euro RSCG, as SVP/CD. Chris Davies, who also worked at Sharpe Blackmore, has been hired as ACD. The agency’s clients includes Mercedes, Swiss Chalet and Hershey.

Dan Strasser is DDB Vancouver’s latest hire. Hailing from DDB Chicago, he joins as art director. Extreme Group has hired Clifford Thompson, originally from South Africa, as associate CD. Thompson worked at JWT Johannesburg as deputy CD. His clients at Extreme Group will include Atlantic Lottery, Destination Halifax and Workers’ Compensation.

Marc Stoiber, formerly VP/CD at Grey Northwest in Vancouver, has started an agency called Change, which focuses on helping sustainable development companies. To date, Stoiber’s clients include Not Just Pretty Organic Clothing, The Greater Vancouver Regional District and Saltspring Coffee. His first campaign for Not Just Pretty included two viral commercials, store posters and print ads.