R/GA, the global creative innovation company, announced today it has appointed the internationally acclaimed designer, Ren Rigby, as its first ever Global Chief Brand Officer. Ren, formerly known as Mike Rigby, re-joins R/GA from Proto, where they co-founded the innovation consultancy. Reporting to Tiffany Rolfe, Chair and Global Chief Creative Officer of R/GA, Ren will focus on elevating R/GA’s new independent agency positioning and bringing it to market. Ren will also be responsible for evolving the R/GA brand identity, including branding its new AI products and blueprint ecosystem, and playing a strategic role in helping to drive growth for R/GA and its clients.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome Ren back to R/GA. They are one of the most inspirational and awarded multidisciplinary design leaders in our industry,” said Tiffany Rolfe, Chair and Global Chief Creative Officer of R/GA. “Ren’s experience at creating at the intersection of design and innovation will be invaluable in helping us to codify our brand for this new AI era. At a time when generative technology can create infinite possibilities, it’s Ren’s craft — their ability to bring clarity, beauty, and purpose through design — that will ensure our brand and products stand apart with a distinctly human touch.”
“Coming back to R/GA feels like coming home. For over four decades, R/GA has turned technological change into cultural breakthroughs that matter to people. This is the place where design has always met what’s next,” said Ren Rigby, Global Chief Brand Officer, R/GA. “R/GA thrives when technology is evolving and the rules are still being written– a company that has always blazed its own trail, fueled by a maker spirit that brings creative innovation into reality. This unique combination of design culture, rich history, and newfound independence makes this such a special moment to rejoin. I’m excited to partner with Tiff, Robin, our talented R/GA global family, and our iconic clients to unlock the best of what we do and help build the brands the future deserves.”
This strategic move is the latest in a series of significant investments by R/GA following its transition to an independent, privately held company in partnership with private equity firm Truelink Capital. Since its move to independence, the company has invested in new talent, product development, partnerships, and acquisitions – most recently with the acquisition of AI system design studio Addition.
Ren joins R/GA from Proto, where they co-founded the New York based innovation consultancy. Prior to Proto, Ren co-founded the Business Transformation offering and served as the Global Head of Brand for R/GA where they led major innovation projects for clients including: Nike, Google, Shopify, Pepsico, and a host of start-ups. They began their 23-year career at one of Britain’s most respected and awarded design agencies – The Chase Creative Consultants. Later working for Pentagram London, True North, Landor, and Interbrand. Ren is the former Chairman of the Australian Graphic Design Association. They have been personally honored with ‘The Bill Bernbach Award for Creative Brilliance’ – DDB’s highest accolade.
They have won all of the major international design awards and have served as judges for the most prestigious programs including: the renowned Cannes Glass: Lion for Change, The One Show, D&AD, The Type Directors Club New York, and many more.