Bates 141 finds an ECD in Russell Barrett

Russell Barrett, who was creative director at Leo Burnett, has been appointed executive creative director at Bates 141. He starts his new assignment on January 12 at the Mumbai office.

"The excitement is about working with Sonal Dabral. I had lost out on that chance earlier because when I joined O&M, he had just left there," recalls Barrett, chatting to afaqs! about his move.

Sandeep Pathak, chief executive officer, Bates 141, says, "2009 is the ‘Year of the Product’ for us at Bates 141. That goal can't be realised unless you have the right set of people leading from the front. Getting Russel on board is a part of the plan that will make that creative makeover happen for us."

Sonal Dabral, chairman, India, and regional executive creative director, Asia, Bates 141, says, "Bates 141 Mumbai needed someone who would lead by example. Russel not only has experience but is also one of the most awarded creative people today. He is inspiring, intelligent, and focussed and I am confident that he'll help take the Mumbai office to new heights. "

Barrett was responsible for the Luxor Che, Charlie and Hitler print campaigns, along with Santosh Padhi, which picked up the maximum awards for Leo Burnett last year, including at Cannes, the One Show, London International Awards, Art Director's Club and the Andys.

He will look after all the brands that Bates 141 handles, including Virgin Mobile, Radio City, Tata AIG and Fiat.

Barrett began his career in 1996 with Rediffusion DY&R (now Rediffusion Y&R). There, he was involved in creative work for the Taj Group of Hotels, Colgate and Eveready. After three years there, Barrett moved to O&M as senior writer; he stayed there for four and a half years.

Recently, Suchitra Gahlot and Nitin Suri were appointed executive creative directors at Bates 141 Delhi.