Initiative, the culturally-driven media agency within IPG Mediabrands, has announced the appointment of Sharon Ho as CEO, Initiative China. She will be based in Shanghai, reporting to Melinda Po, CEO of IPG Mediabrands Greater China.
With extensive experience spanning media, digital and creative agencies in the Greater China region, Ho has a proven track record of exploring the convergence of technology, data and communication, and utilizing innovative approaches to drive digital transformation and growth for clients. Most recently, she was Managing Director at Digitas China. Ho is always on the lookout for the next innovative breakthrough and her work with a portfolio of iconic brands such as Henkel, Nike, Visa and Crocs was a testament to her commitment to digital innovation.
Beyond her professional achievements, Ho is a firm believer in leading as a Coach. She is a Certified Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) Coach and a proponent of leveraging leadership to inspire and influence others, thereby amplifying impact and revolutionizing organizational performance. In addition, she has guided students as a guest lecturer with New York University Shanghai. These achievements have earned her recognition by Campaign’s “Women to Watch APAC”.
As Initiative China CEO, Ho will leverage her strength in integrating technology, data and communication, and passion in driving a consumer-centered offerings for clients, with her unique approach of building trust and rapport among all stakeholders in fueling growth.
Sharon Ho commented, “I am impressed by Initiative’s global proposition Fame and Flow, which is rooted in the belief of the power of media to reshape the industry and orchestrate a brand’s entire consumer journey. It’s a modern way of marketing, blending media and experience along customer lifecycle. I very much look forward to working with the team.”
Melinda Po, CEO of IPG Mediabrands Greater China said: “China is a fast-growing market and our clients are always looking for innovative ways to improve their marketing effectiveness. Sharon’s extensive marketing knowledge and understanding of the Chinese market is extremely valuable to Initiative China. By incorporating Sharon’s digital-led thinking into our media strategies, we will ensure our client’s success, while her strategic thinking will enable us to adapt to market changes. I believe that Initiative China can reach a new level, which will also benefit the whole group to drive the approach of technology integration in media.”
Melinda Po also expressed her gratitude and best wishes to Karen Ho, who had decided to leave Initiative to pursuit her next passion, for her contribution, “as the leader of the team that has made Initiative a culturally pioneering agency in China, Karen has indeed laid a strong foundation for Initiative China to become bigger and grander”.
