180 LA has appointed William Gelner as its new executive creative director to coincide with the move to new offices in Santa Monica.
Gelner, 40, moves from BBH New York where he was group creative director and responsible for overseeing the creative development of the highly successful Axe account.
"William just feels right for 180," said Andy Fackrell, executive creative director of 180 Amsterdam. "He has a real team mentality that we support. Plus, he has done just amazing work, including Mike's Hard Lemonade and Axe."
"I'm happiest when I'm part of something bigger, when I'm instrumental in shaping a place," said Gelner. "So when the opportunity to help build an agency like 180 LA came up, I didn't hesitate for an instant. I think 180 is one of the most forward-thinking agencies in the world."
Gelner told shots.net that he would not be making any structural changes to the agency but rather would concentrate on creating "an inspiring environment for growth, success and, hopefully, a little fun".
He joins Peter Cline and Michael Allen as a managing partner of 180 LA. The American office has been up and running since January of this year.
180's client roster includes adidas, Sony Consumer Electronics USA, Sony Corporation, MTV, Opel (General Motors Europe), Amstel Beer, Glenfiddich, Omega Watches and Dr Pepper. 180 Amsterdam scooped three silver awards at the One Show last night.
