Octagon global role for Ritchie

Sports company Octagon Marketing has promoted Alasdair Ritchie to worldwide president as it seeks to boost its consultancy business in the lucrative US market.

He takes over the role from former US marketing president Harlan Stone, who is understood to have quit the IPG-owned group to join an Internet start-up.

Former TBWA global chief Ritchie joined Octagon less than two years ago (MW November 5 1998) as president of Europe, Africa, Asia and Australasia. Since then, he has presided over a major expansion of the international business.

Recent wins include Euro 2000 accounts from Hyundai, Sony PlayStation, Pringles and Cereal Partners Worldwide, and next year’s British Lions tour of Australia (MW March 9).

In his new role, Ritchie will spearhead Octagon’s marketing-led drive into the North American market, which is understood to account for half of the company’s global business.

Frank Craighill, deputy chairman of Octagon, has also been promoted – to worldwide chairman.

Octagon Worldwide chairman and chief executive Frank Lowe says: “Ritchie has played a key role, helping to develop our marketing business substantially. With the support of Craighill, he will ensure we continue to build Octagon globally.”