VCCP acquires Govt to expand Asia-pacific presence

VCCP has moved to strengthen its Asia-Pacific presence with the acquisition of Singapore-based independent agencies GOVT and its digital sister agency Ministry. The deal brings together VCCP’s existing Singapore operation with GOVT and Ministry to form GOVT VCCP, creating a larger integrated agency designed to serve local and regional clients from a Singapore base.

The merged agency combines VCCP’s international network and resources with GOVT’s experience in the Singapore market. The structure is intended to offer clients access to advertising, data science, social and content, technology and artificial intelligence, and consumer experience services under one integrated model.

Regional expansion strategy

Founded in 2012 by Leon Lai and Aaron Koh, GOVT was established as an independent alternative to network agencies in Singapore. The agency has grown to a team of around 70 people and has built a reputation through work recognised at local and international award shows. In 2023, GOVT expanded its capabilities with the launch of Ministry, focused on digital communications.

GOVT and Ministry work with a mix of local and regional brands including OCBC Bank, Cathay Pacific, Sentosa, Julie’s Biscuits, Puma, Chick-fil-A, Deliveroo and Canon, as well as a range of Singapore government agencies and public sector bodies.

Singapore hub for Asia

For VCCP, the acquisition supports its growth plans in Asia and positions Singapore as a strategic hub for further expansion across the region. The combined operation is intended to provide scale in the market while retaining an independent agency culture.

Leadership continuity is a central part of the integration. Tim Chan remains chief executive officer of the Singapore operation, Aaron Koh continues as chief creative officer, and Katya Obolensky moves into the role of chief growth officer with responsibility for network expansion across Asia.

Julian Douglas, Group CEO of VCCP: "GOVT shares our fundamental belief that the best work comes from challenging convention and bringing everything together under one roof. Tim Chan, Aaron Koh and the team have built an outstanding creative operation with genuine challenger spirit. Together we’ll create a powerhouse hub for Asia, combining VCCP’s global scale with deep local expertise to deliver work that works for clients across the region."

Tim Chan, chief executive officer, GOVT VCCP: "When I joined Leon Lai and Aaron Koh on this adventure, we just wanted to have a good time, defying the status quo of network agencies. Being small and nimble got us here, but staying that way would also mean saying no to bigger opportunities we’ve earned the right to pursue. Merging with VCCP gives us the ability to grow while staying true to our culture."

Katya Obolensky, chief growth officer, GOVT VCCP: "In GOVT, we found a strong cultural and creative fit. From the first meeting, there was clear alignment in how we think about creativity and growth. I am looking forward to working with Tim Chan and the team to build the business across Singapore and the wider region."

www.vccp.com

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