In a significant development in the advertising world, David Lubars, the creative powerhouse behind BBDO Worldwide, has announced his retirement. Lubars, who has been a beacon of creativity and innovation in the industry for over four decades, will be stepping down from his role as the chief creative officer at the end of this year.
Lubars’ career is a testament to his creative genius, with a portfolio that boasts of iconic campaigns for a diverse range of clients including AT&T, BMW, HBO, FedEx, and Snickers. His work has not only achieved commercial success but has also been recognized and celebrated in the industry. Under his leadership, BBDO has been honored with numerous awards, including the prestigious Network of the Year at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.
Perhaps one of the most memorable campaigns under Lubars’ creative direction was BMW’s “The Hire”. This series of short films, released in the early 2000s, featured Clive Owen and a host of other celebrities. The campaign was a game-changer, redefining advertising as a form of entertainment rather than just a marketing tool.
Lubars has always been a strong advocate for innovation and challenging the status quo. This is evident in his groundbreaking campaigns like HBO’s “Voyeur”. He has also used his platform to drive social change, as seen in his impactful work with organizations like Sandy Hook Promise. His philosophy of “fierce reductionism” and his emphasis on simplicity have played a key role in shaping the creative culture at BBDO.
As Lubars prepares to pass the baton, Chris Beresford-Hill, who rejoined BBDO as the chief creative officer of the Americas, is set to step into his shoes. Having worked under Lubars from 2010 to 2017, Beresford-Hill is well-equipped to carry forward BBDO’s legacy of creativity and excellence. With Nancy Reyes taking over as the CEO of BBDO Americas, the agency is poised for continued success.
As the advertising world bids adieu to Lubars, his influence on the industry is undeniable. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of creatives. Here’s to David Lubars, a true legend of advertising, as he embarks on his well-deserved retirement. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.
