Elmwood, a UK-based design consultancy, has named Meg Beckum its executive creative director for its New York office.
Beckum previously worked as a creative lead at Sullivan, Interbrand, and AKQA, where she built comprehensive brand programs, integrated campaigns, and immersive customer experiences for a roster of brands that includes American Express, AT&T, Avon, Planned Parenthood, Teach for America, and Verizon.
She has been tasked with elevating all aspects of the studio’s creative strategy and output, as well as introducing new methodologies, nurturing top talent, bringing visual and verbal identity closer together, and building agile and collaborative teams that help clients outpace the new challenges they face.
Beckum said: "It’s critical that we’re in tune with what’s on our clients’ minds. With the ever-shifting reality of consumer demands and technology, they are facing constant disruption and uncertainty. I’m focused on continually evolving and improving the ways we work, think, and create so that we can push our clients in new directions."
She has been asked to work closely with Nulty White, head of client partnerships and studio lead at Elmwood NYC.
White said in a statement: “This appointment is part of a larger plan to further strengthen our creative and strategic offering while reinforcing our focus on unlocking the power of design for all of our clients. Meg is a perfect fit for the challenge, with tons of great experience. We are excited to have her as part of the Elmwood family.”
Beckum added: “I joined Elmwood because of its people, specifically their ambition and belief in design. Elmwood has the heart to inspire and sustain a massively talented team, and the fire to innovate beyond traditional branding. I’m thrilled to help lead the New York studio—there’s so much that we can do.”
Steve Gatfield, Elmwood’s group chairman added: “Our investment in Meg and in New York reflects the importance we attach to accelerating our capacity to build the power of our design work across our client base in the US.”
Beckum will also look to deepen the studio's involvement within New York's larger design community. Currently, she serves on the AIGA's NY board, chairing the organization's community committee, and advocates for design within the city's civic and cultural life.