O2 appoints Shop founder Thompson

O2 has announced the appointment of a new head of brand strategy, founder of agency Shop, Gav Thompson. He joins in October and will report to O2 customer director Cath Keers, who is also responsible for business strategy, communications and business development. She in turn reports to chief executive Matthew Key.

Thompson has spent 13 years working in advertising as a strategic planning director. In 2004 he founded communications agency Shop, which counts includes Christian Aid and Mercedes-Benz as clients.

Thompson’s career began at Abbott Mead Vickers BBDO and has previously held the position of managing partner at TBWA/London where was responsible for the global launch campaign for PlayStation 2.

Thompson replaces Tim Sefton, who has been appointed senior vice-president of strategy and development at the O2 Group.