Gavin Macmillan
Marketing Strategist
Experienced marketing leader specialising in marketing strategy development, and implementation planning to drive transformative growth.
About
I bring 25+ years experience in management, brand and advertising strategy, with a particular strength in reframing communications to drive meaningful business outcomes. My background spans both creative and strategic leadership, and I’ve worked with brands across multiple sectors to sharpen their positioning, elevate their messaging, and align marketing with commercial goals.
I hold an MBA, which complements my creative credentials with a strong foundation in business strategy, analytics, financial modelling, and operational discipline. What excites me is applying that blend of experience directly within businesses — not just via an agency — to influence the full spectrum of marketing outcomes: from brand architecture and customer acquisition to retention strategies and commercial performance.
I’m known as a straight-talking trusted advisor to entrepreneurs and executives alike. I don’t just offer ideas — I help make them executable. Whether it’s navigating complex stakeholder environments or building scalable marketing systems, I bring clarity, momentum, and results.
Experience
Ogilvy Australia
Managing Director (2016 – 2025)
Led and managed all aspects of Melbourne office operations and business growth. Recruited and managed a team of 100+ professionals, managed $20m P&L, and oversaw revenue, cost management, and profit performance. Architected successful marketing communications for renowned brands, won 12 Cannes Lions and 9 Effies. Provided personal marketing advisory to leading CMOs and C-suite members. Spearheaded AI adoption and integration of business process technologies.
Ogilvy Australia
Head of Strategy (2012 – 2016)
Led a team of 7 strategists, crafted strategies for Melbourne clients, and led Ogilvy Consulting offering. Won 8 Cannes Lions and 10+ Effies.
DDB
Strategic Planning Director (2007 – 2012)
Crafted brand and communications strategies for renowned brands, conducted marketing analytics and qualitative research.
RKCR/Y&R London
Planner (2003 – 2007)
Crafted brand and communications strategies for various brands, conducted 200+ focus groups and interviews.
Y&R Europe
Brand Analytics Executive (1999 – 2003)
Managed Brand Asset Valuator tool, trained strategy teams, and administered research and data for European markets.
Y&R Melbourne
Strategic Planning Executive (1997 – 1999)
Led analysis of BAV tool for the Australian market, conducted qualitative focus groups and interviews.
Qualifications
Master of Business Administration (2023)
Melbourne Business School
Bachelor of Business (Marketing) (1998)
Monash University
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