Reed takes over at Brandhouse

Brandhouse has appointed Crispin Reed to the role of managing director, effectively replacing Mark Gandy, who left earlier this year after 12 years with the company to join Jones Knowles Ritchie.

The consultancy has been running under chairman Mark Wickens since March.

Reed, who comes from a predominantly advertising background, is due to start at the end of August. He comes from the UK arm of Sterling Brands, where he was partner.

He plans to grow both the creative and strategic side of the business, with an emphasis on consumer insight.

‘One area that intrigues me is consumer insight and how companies can help in the context of consumer research. How do you get to the consumer truth? I’m keen to explore how Brandhouse can strengthen its credentials in this area,’ says Reed.

The management team reporting into Reed will cross the strategic and creative arms of the business and includes creative director Dave Beard, planning director Warwick Cairns and client service director Liz Wilson.

Reed says he expects to bring on board new recruits to support the growth of the business.

Reed has previously worked for owners of fragrance brands Penhaligon’s and L’Artisan Parfumeur, Cradle Holdings, as well as spending time at advertising agencies Leo Burnett, CDP & Partners and Springer & Jacoby.

‘Most advertising people will agree that there is a steady decline in the influence of traditional advertising. I’ve been fortunate in that working on the client side, it whetted my appetite for brand consultancy,’ Reed says, explaining his move into branding.