Publicis Montreal expands its leadership

Publicis Montreal has appointed Simon Bédard as vice president, strategy.

Bédard joins Publicis from K72, and brings more than 20 years of experience working in the advertising industry. He’s also worked in senior positions at Cossette before where he led strategy for brands like McDonald’s, General Mills and Home Depot, as well as LG2, where he worked on the Gold Bond, Desjardins and Rolaids accounts. The marketing veteran has also collaborated with such brands as Intact Insurance, Telus and Jean Coutu.

“He brings not only a wealth of knowledge but also a dynamic enthusiasm and a pragmatic approach that perfectly aligns with Publicis Montreal’s core values,” says Camille Fortier-Jordan, Publicis Montreal managing director. “We’re confident that his skills, thought leadership, and vision will greatly enhance our strategy department.”

Gut expands with ACD add

Cristina Piñeros is starting a new role as associate creative director at Gut Toronto.

A nearly four-year Anomaly vet, she recently held the ACD title there. Piñeros joined Anomaly as a copywriter, holding that same role previously with Sid Lee.

She has worked on campaigns such as Reese’s “Uncupped,” Homesense’s “Best Friends” and Maple Leaf Food’s “Little Things.” Piñeros has also worked on brand accounts including Netflix, Budweiser, Stella Artois, Michelob Ultra, Corona and Coors Original.

Vancouver’s Milk names two accounts team members

Milk Creative Communications has welcomed Sydney Lowe as account manager, and Kellie Cassidy as account executive.

Lowe most recently worked as communications account manager for Laura Ballance Media, handling BC Dairy, Alberta Milk and Honda Celebration of Light accounts.

She will be supporting hospitality and CPG clients including Arterra Wines Canada, which recently named Milk Creative Communications its new public relations AOR for its BC VQA wines.

Cassidy was previously a senior account executive brand and sponsorship for Dublin’s Legacy Communication working on accounts such as Aviva Ireland, Indeed, and Insomnia Coffee.