Havas acquires Kaimera to expand ANZ media reach

Havas has acquired Kaimera, an independent media agency known for simplifying complex media challenges and delivering customised solutions. The move expands Havas Media Network’s presence across Australia and New Zealand and supports the rollout of Converged.AI, the group’s AI-driven, data-powered operating system. Kaimera will operate as Kaimera, a Havas Company under Havas Media Network.

Founded in 2016, Kaimera has grown into a team of more than fifty across Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland. The agency brings experience in tailored, results-focused media strategy and a client portfolio that includes Nando’s, Scape, IMB Bank, Afterpay and BritBox.

Integration adds scale and specialist capabilities

Kaimera’s founders, Nick Behr and Trent McMillan, will report to James Wright, group chief executive officer of Havas ANZ. The agency will initially remain in its Surry Hills and South Melbourne offices. With the acquisition, Havas ANZ’s headcount grows to more than four hundred and fifty.

Yannick Bolloré, chairman and chief executive officer: "I’m delighted to welcome Nick Behr, Trent McMillan and the talented team at Kaimera to the Havas family. This deal reinforces our commitment to the Australian and New Zealand markets and our belief in the opportunity there with James and his leadership team. We have very clear ambitions across our Group, and bringing in Kaimera’s expertise and strong reputation will further strengthen our network and accelerate the deployment of our Converged.AI strategy, ensuring we deliver excellence for our clients."

Alignment with Havas ANZ growth strategy

The deal follows Havas Group ANZ’s introduction of its positioning Deliberately Different, which combines entrepreneurial agility with the resources of a global network.

James Wright, group chief executive officer of Havas ANZ: "The acquisition of Kaimera is a clear statement of our ambition in Australia and New Zealand. As part of our new ANZ business plan and positioning of being deliberately different, we are focused on growth and entrepreneurial investment in the region. To deliver on this, we want to bring in the best talent and resources to deliver more powerful and meaningful results for our clients. We believe Kaimera’s culture, proven track record, and specialist capabilities are a perfect complement to our Group. We welcome Nick, Trent, and their team."

Kaimera joins Havas with focus on future growth

Nick Behr, chief executive officer and founder of Kaimera: "We need to stay future-focused for our clients and our people, and Havas is the perfect partner for this next chapter. The group has a clear vision and strong foundations for where it’s heading. Joining Havas gives us access to greater investment, scale, resources, tools and technology, particularly in AI, while allowing us to stay true to our culture and approach. Together, we can deliver even more meaningful growth for brands across Australia, New Zealand and beyond. We’re excited to begin this new chapter with James and the Havas team."

The acquisition reinforces Havas’ aim to unite creativity, media and technology within a scalable model that supports long-term growth for clients in the region.

www.havas.com

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