Omnicom Group Inc. - OMC STOCK NEWS

DDB Worldwide has announced the launch of DDB FTW, the world's first specialized esports and gaming network agency, headquartered in Prague. The agency aims to cater to the rapidly growing gaming market, with 30% of the global population identifying as gamers. DDB FTW seeks to provide tailored solutions for current and new clients, recognizing the significance of connecting with the 2.8 billion gamers worldwide. Led by CEO Darko Silajdžić, the agency will leverage the expertise of passionate gamers within the DDB network to innovate in this vital territory.

DDB Worldwide has promoted Alex Hesz to Global Chief Strategy Officer and Roisin Rooney to Global Chief People Officer, strengthening its leadership team. Hesz transitions from his previous role as head of strategy for adam&eveDDB, where he managed key accounts like Lloyds Banking Group and Unilever. Rooney, previously the regional Chief People Officer in EMEA, will focus on talent development and company culture. Both leaders aim to drive strategy and culture amid evolving market dynamics, ensuring DDB remains competitive.

Marina Maher Communications has appointed four senior leaders to enhance its Digital Innovation practice, focusing on influencer, social media, and analytics. Key appointments include Saveira Singh as Executive Director, Mike Schaffer as Group SVP, Jo Madnani as VP of Digital Health, and Carolina Ortiz as VP of Consumer Digital and Influencer Marketing. These leaders bring extensive experience from major brands and aim to drive impactful digital communications strategies. MMC is part of Omnicom Public Relations Group, which extensively collaborates across marketing disciplines.

On Oct. 29, 2020, FleishmanHillard announced the launch of a proprietary diagnostic tool, DE&IQ, aimed at assessing organizations' diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) efforts. The tool will help clients evaluate the effectiveness of their DE&I communications and initiatives. Alongside this launch, the firm appointed five new regional leaders for its True MOSAIC practice, emphasizing a strategic approach to DE&I in business. The newly appointed leaders bring experience and aim to elevate clients' DE&I actions, aligning with stakeholder expectations for authenticity and accountability.

Omnicom Group reported net income of $313.3 million for Q3 2020, up from $290.2 million in Q3 2019, with diluted earnings per share increasing to $1.45. However, overall revenue fell 11.5% to $3,206.5 million due to COVID-19 impacts, with organic growth down 11.7%. Operating profit increased 5.9% to $501.4 million, benefiting from government program reimbursements. Year-to-date, net income decreased 41% to $547.3 million, with a 12.9% revenue decline recorded for the first nine months of 2020.

Ketchum has been awarded Global Creative Agency of the Year for 2020, marking its second consecutive win at PRovoke's Global SABRE Awards. This recognition underscores Ketchum's successful campaigns in collaboration with top brands like Gillette, Wendy's, and Mastercard. The awards celebrate excellence in public relations, with Ketchum also receiving accolades for notable campaigns such as 'We Believe' and 'Keeping Fortnite Fresh.' With a total of 105 Cannes Lions, Ketchum continues to position itself as a leader in creative communications within the Omnicom Public Relations Group.

Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC) is set to release its third quarter and year-to-date 2020 financial results on October 27, 2020, before the market opens. A conference call to discuss the outcomes will take place on the same day at 8:15 a.m. EDT. Callers can join by dialing (844) 291-5490 (domestic) or (409) 207-6993 (international) with access code 5158965. The call will also be available via a simulcast on the company's website.

On October 5, 2020, key community leaders participated in a webinar titled "FORGING FORWARD," discussing Atlanta's response to COVID-19. Terry Mazany from the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta highlighted that over $25 million was raised for COVID-19 relief, with nearly $18.5 million allocated to 321 nonprofit recipients. Ann Cramer emphasized the exacerbation of existing disparities during the pandemic, while Deborah Ryan noted improved transparency in funding decisions. The series will continue with a focus on nonprofit strategies amidst national changes, starting with a webinar on October 27.

Ketchum has appointed Lindsay Wagner as the new Senior Vice President and Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) for North America. Reporting to Mike Doyle, Ketchum's president and CEO, Wagner will lead the firm's DE&I strategy, focusing on enhancing recruitment and retention of diverse talent. She aims to hold the organization accountable for systemic change in DE&I efforts, collaborating closely with Omnicom's leadership. Wagner brings extensive experience in DE&I initiatives and social justice advocacy, having previously led client work across various sectors.