dentsu has appointed Michelle Testa as Managing Director of its Western Australian business. The appointment follows Testa being named WA Ad Person of the Year.
Testa has spent more than 14 years at dentsu and has worked with major government, commercial and global brands across Western Australia.
She has also built long-standing client relationships, including more than a decade with Cash Converters, as well as partnerships with the West Coast Eagles, Revo Fitness and Murdoch University.
Focus on clients and people
In her new role, Testa will lead dentsu WA's integrated offering, with a focus on client growth, people and the agency's connection with the Western Australian market.
She has also held leadership roles within the broader industry. Testa has contributed to the Oasis Committee for more than a decade, including three years as Chairperson.
Her work has focused on social impact, community causes and highlighting the experiences of vulnerable young people.
Testa is also Co-Chair of dentsu's Women in the Workplace DEI Council. She is an inaugural mentor in the Youngbloods WA Paddle Program, supporting emerging talent across the media, marketing and communications sector.
Testa said, “Western Australia is a market built on relationships, resilience and an incredible sense of community, and I’m proud to have spent the past 14 years building my career alongside our people, clients and industry partners here.”
“What has always inspired me about dentsu is the belief that great work can create meaningful impact, whether that’s helping clients grow their businesses, supporting positive behaviour change in our communities, or creating opportunities for our people to thrive,” she added.
“I’m honoured to step into the role of Managing Director and excited about what lies ahead. We have an exceptional team, strong client partnerships and a business that is uniquely positioned to help brands navigate a rapidly changing landscape. Together, we’ll continue building on that momentum and shaping the next chapter of growth for dentsu WA,” Testa also commented.
dentsu backs local leadership
Chris Ernst, Chief Practice Officer, Media, dentsu ANZ said, “Michelle is one of the most respected and admired leaders in our business and across the Western Australian market.
“Over more than 14 years at dentsu she has made an extraordinary impact, not only through the strength of her client relationships and commercial leadership, but through the culture she has helped build and the example she sets every day,” he added.
“She is a genuine collaborator, an outstanding people leader and someone who consistently uses her influence to create positive outcomes for clients, colleagues and the broader community,” he commented.
“Michelle’s appointment reflects the trust and confidence we have in her leadership and her vision for the future. I’m excited to see her lead our WA business into its next chapter,” he concluded.
Testa's appointment reflects dentsu's continued focus on local leadership and integrated client solutions in Western Australia.