Lowe starts search for strategy director

Interpublic Group has issued a brief to find a strategy or planning director to join the senior management team at its beleaguered creative agency Lowe London.

The role has been empty since February last year, when Russ Lidstone quit for JWT. Lidstone has since joined RSCG as chief strategic officer.

The brief calls for someone with at least seven years’ experience, and who will be able to offer “integrated” marketing solutions.

The candidate would eventually form part of the senior management, alongside the chief executive and creative director.

Neil Dawson, who last month was promoted from TBWA/London executive planning director to chairman, had previously been linked to the role, but rumours have since been denied.

It is not known if a similar brief has been issued to fill Garry Lace’s chief executive role. Lacy remains suspended on full pay pending an internal investigation.

Lace is alleged to have met Sir Frank Lowe in December, after Sir Frank set up an independent creative shop, later named The Red Brick Road.

Sir Frank’s new agency secured the &£45m Tesco supermarket account held by Lowe.

Sir Frank has since denied approaching Lace.