Experiential agency Verve, has appointed Mike Kettles as its new Group Creative Director.
Kettles steps into the role as John O’Shaughnessy, who has led Verve’s creative department for nearly two decades, transitions into a new position as Non-Executive Creative Director.
In his new role, Kettles will lead Verve’s creative studios across Dublin, London and Amsterdam, while also overseeing creative direction in Singapore, where the agency is set to open a new office later this year. His appointment comes at a key time for Verve, which continues to expand internationally as part of The Opus Group, a global collective of leading experiential and brand experience agencies.
With more than 25 years’ experience in creative leadership, Kettles has worked across multiple markets and agency models, from global networks to independent studios. A founding member of Greenspace, he has also held senior roles at Momentum Worldwide (McCann) and Spiro (GES). His work has received international recognition, spanning a wide range of industries and audiences.
“There’s huge creative momentum at Verve right now, and a real opportunity to push things further. The studio is packed with sharp thinkers and brilliant creators, and the energy across the business is palpable. With global expansion underway, I’m excited to help shape the next chapter and build ideas that move people in every sense,” Kettles said.
“John’s creative legacy at Verve is immense – he helped define who we are and what we stand for. I’m hugely grateful for everything he’s given, and delighted he’ll remain part of our story. Mike brings proven creative leadership and a clear strategic lens. He’s already made his mark, and we’re excited to see where he’ll take us next,” adds Ronan Traynor, founder and CEO of Verve.
