VML announced a set of leadership appointments aimed at strengthening creative leadership and office management across North America, with changes centered on its New York hub and its regional creative organization.
Jason Xenopoulos has been appointed CEO of VML New York and Chief Creative Officer, Global Accounts. In the combined role, Xenopoulos will lead VML’s New York office while also overseeing creative direction for major global accounts, including Ford Motor Company. The agency positioned the move as a growth and innovation play, pairing office leadership with global client stewardship to align creative output with broader business goals.
VML also named Mel Routhier to the North America Chief Creative Officer position. In that role, Routhier will partner with Tom Murphy, North America Chief Creative Officer, to guide the agency’s creative vision and work across its North American client roster. VML emphasized Routhier’s focus and team leadership, framing the appointment as a step toward deepening a culture of creativity and delivering brand experiences designed to resonate with audiences and drive results.
Debbi Vandeven, VML’s Global Chief Creative Officer, said the appointments are intended to elevate both the New York office’s trajectory and the agency’s broader creative ambitions. The agency highlighted Xenopoulos’ blend of business and creative leadership as a key factor in scaling New York’s momentum and strengthening global client work, while pointing to Routhier’s approach to idea development and leadership as a driver of impact across the region.
VML said the appointments are effective immediately.
KEY QUOTES
I see these dual roles as an opportunity to do great creative work for some of our largest clients, while helping to shape and grow a great creative agency. I have always believed that creativity and business impact are two sides of the same coin — the best way to excel at one is to excel at both. VML New York has grown into a creative powerhouse, and I’m excited to help steer its continued success.
Jason Xenopoulos, Newly Announced, CEO VML NY, CCO Global Accounts
It’s an honor to step into this North America CCO role alongside Tom. VML’s creative ambition is boundless, and I’m thrilled to help shape our next chapter, driving strong creative solutions and ensuring our work resonates deeply with audiences and delivers undeniable results for our clients.
Mel Routhier, Newly Announced, North America CCO
“Jason and Mel will make an incredible impact in these pivotal roles,” said Debbi Vandeven, Global Chief Creative Officer at VML. “Jason’s unique blend of strategic business acumen and creative firepower will be invaluable as we continue to grow our New York office and elevate our global client work. Mel’s visionary leadership and proven ability to craft groundbreaking human-first ideas will ensure that our creative continues to shape the industry.”
Debbi Vandeven, Global Chief Creative Officer, VML
