Special NZ, the agency known for its innovative and integrated approach, announced the appointment of Melissa Venter as its new Director of Operations. This strategic hire marks a significant step in Special's ongoing efforts to enhance its operational excellence and integrate its diverse capabilities across its New Zealand offices.

Melissa Venter brings with her an impressive 16-year career in the agency world, both locally and internationally. Her experience spans various roles in Project Management, Production, and Operations, having worked with globally recognized agencies in London and New Zealand. 

Prior to joining Special, Venter was with Colenso BBDO, where she made a notable impact as Delivery Director for Spark NZ before transitioning to the role of Creative Operations Manager in 2020. In this capacity, she played a crucial role in developing and implementing systems and workflows for the creative and design departments, focusing on commercial efficiency, workflow optimization, and employee well-being.

In her new role at Special, Venter will be responsible for overseeing the integration and optimization of the agency’s operations across its communication, design, digital, and PR departments. Her role will be pivotal in streamlining operations and enhancing the synergy between these diverse areas of the business, ensuring that Special’s Auckland and Wellington offices deliver exceptional results for their wide-ranging client base.

Special’s Founder, Tony Bradbourne, expressed his enthusiasm about Venter’s appointment: “We are always looking for ways big and small to improve. Mel’s experience and insights will undoubtedly help us be even better at that as we continue to grow across our two New Zealand offices, Auckland and Wellington, with our global team of 260.” Bradbourne's confidence in Venter underscores the value she is expected to bring to Special, especially in optimizing and operationalizing their integrated capabilities.

A Vision for the Future

Venter is equally enthusiastic about her new role. She noted, “Special is 100% true to its name, and I’m excited to get under the hood to help evolve the agency’s offering to support the needs of our clients, match the unyielding creative ambition, and support this talented bunch of people.” Her commitment to evolving Special’s operational framework aligns with the agency’s broader goals of enhancing client support and sustaining its creative drive.

Venter’s appointment comes on the heels of a highly successful year for Special. The agency has received numerous accolades, further solidifying its reputation in the global creative industry. Notably, Special was named Global Creative Agency of the Year for the second consecutive year by Campaign UK. 

Additionally, Special earned the title of New Zealand’s Most Effective Agency at the NZ Effies Awards and was ranked the Most Effective Independent Agency in the World by the Effie Global Rankings. These accolades reflect the agency’s innovative approach and its effectiveness in delivering impactful and successful campaigns.