Apparent, an independent full-service agency, has appointed three new creative directors following a period of significant growth.

Sam McGuinness has been appointed as creative director, visual design. McGuinness brings global experience to the role, having worked with companies such as Canva, R/GA Sydney and New York, Turner Duckworth, and Re. In his new position, McGuinness will oversee Apparent's team of brand, visual, and motion designers, collaborating closely with Cristina Douglas, who leads the agency's experience design team.

McGuinness expressed his enthusiasm for joining Apparent, stating, "It feels like no-one has quite cracked the integration of brand, visual and experience design. What really attracted me to Apparent is the way they put the customer at the centre of everything, creating work that doesn’t just look good, it’s deeply connected to how people actually think, feel and behave."

In addition to McGuinness, Leisa Ilander and Gillian Dalla Pozza have been appointed as joint creative directors. Both Ilander and Dalla Pozza were previously associate creative directors at Dentsu Creative and are recognised for their award-winning campaigns, including work for THE ICONIC.

"We’re passionate about odd-shaped ideas that make people feel something and deliver real impact, especially in digital and social spaces," Ilander said. "Apparent is a growing agency with the talent and firepower to bring those ideas to life. I’m also fortunate to share this role with someone who can finish each other’s…"

Dalla Pozza added, "…sandwiches - and ideas too. Apparent is an agency with a shared vision, where big ideas, experience design and best-in-class execution all come together. The chance to join at such a pivotal moment and be part of the team that helps shape where the agency is headed creatively is hugely exciting."

Apparent's client roster includes notable names such as Google, Volkswagen, Audi, Optus, Vanuatu Tourism Office, and Tip Top. The agency is focused on creating work that intersects brand, experience, and communications, aiming to deliver ideas that connect with consumers across various platforms. Apparent is building a team to deliver creative, cultural, and commercial impact.

Hamish Stewart, chief creative and experience officer at Apparent, expressed his excitement about the new appointments, saying, "Modern brands are increasingly complex, coming to life across the brand experience. With the calibre of leaders we’re attracting, plus our flexibility, structure and scale, we can bring best-in-class thinking to clients at pace. Best of all, all three are already adding immeasurably to our brilliant culture."