The fall out from Gordon Beattie’s “tone deaf” social media post has led to a rebrand and Management Buy Out of Beattie Communications.
The agency has announced that current CEO, Laurna Woods is to lead the MBO and will announce a rebrand and change of name shortly.
Woods confirmed that Beattie will not have any involvement in the new business.
“There have been discussions about an MBO for some time and today marks the start of a new chapter for our people and our clients,” she explained.
“I will be dedicating all my efforts into building a dynamic new agency that is leading in every respect, from the services we provide to the culture we live by. We are fully committed to becoming game changers in the creative industry and an employer that continues to be equal to all. This will be felt through every touch point in our business – from the work we produce to the talent we recruit.
“This buyout will secure the success of a thriving client-focused business. Our new journey starts here.”
It comes following widespread criticism of founder, Gordon Beattie, who said he was stepping down as Chair of the agency, following a controversial social media post (more on that here).
The new agency will be headquartered in London, with regional offices in Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow and Belfast.
Woods wouldn’t reveal how much she and her management team of Elspeth Brown, Joanne Spence, Rachel Gladwin and Chris Gilmour will pay for the agency.
Gordon Beattie, stated:
“I wish the management team every success with the business while I focus on my wider interests.”
