Microsoft Advertising has named former Dennis Publishing creative director Duncan Stafford as its new creative lead.
Stafford takes up the newly created position tasked with helping to build innovative, creative brand experiences that flow freely across Microsoft’s broad, integrated product portfolio. The role underlines Microsoft’s commitment to bringing more co-creation to campaign development, helping advertisers fully exploit the creative potential and reach of its platforms.
Based within Microsoft’s London office, Stafford will report directly to head of advertising solutions, James Hayr. For the role Stafford will work alongside a technical specialist and in partnership with advertising agencies.
At Dennis Publishing, Stafford managed all creative output across print and digital for the past two years. Prior to Dennis Publishing Stafford held roles including art director for talkSPORT’s digital magazine and creative director at Emap.
Of his appointment Stafford said: “I’m thrilled to be taking on this newly created role at Microsoft Advertising, which marks a fresh approach for the company: focusing even more on creativity and partnership.
“I look forward to working with agencies to build some truly ground-breaking campaigns based on this and other Microsoft platforms.”
Hayr added: “Duncan comes with an award-winning pedigree, and his creative insights will play a key role in ensuring our partners make the best use of Microsoft’s offering. He will help bring agencies’ ideas to life across our portfolio, ensuring we work together to co-create innovative content from an early stage. We’re delighted that he has joined the team, and I look forward to tapping into his impressive skills base during this exciting time for Microsoft.”