FIRST has appointed Maggie Connolly as head of agency, responsible for the overall management of the group’s global agency teams, which span four continents with key hubs in New York, London, Dublin, Singapore and LA.

Connolly previously led the FIRST Supporting Google account as senior VP, client services where she oversaw all client relationships across Google and developed the team supporting event technical production and event management in 10 countries globally.

In her new role, she is responsible for driving the vision and strategy of the agency division of the organisation, meeting financial targets and ensuring the high-level of service to clients for which FIRST has become known.

Group CEO, Maureen Ryan-Fable said: “Maggie has a deep understanding of our global clients and relationships and has played a significant role in global growth at FIRST over the years, developing some of our largest accounts and longest relationships. She has continued to be an invaluable member of FIRST who understands our company from the inside out and we’re so delighted to see her continue to deliver real impact in her new role at an exciting time for the business.”

Connolly added: “I’m so grateful and excited for this opportunity to lead our agency teams, continuing to position FIRST as one of the most respected global brand experience agencies for our valued clients, supplier partners and dedicated colleagues.

“It’s been incredible to be a part of our business growth and to see all we’ve achieved over the years. The contributions of every single person at FIRST – how we deliver on all the details that make magical moments for our clients and our people – showcase our value of excellence. I’m extremely passionate about maintaining and elevating the bar, and I’m honoured to be able to lead that charge.”

The new appointment comes alongside other key organisational updates at FIRST including Jen Kauf’s promotion to global head of marketing & creative, Angelo Solomita to chief legal officer and group board director, Sam Sherman as SVP of Risk & Compliance and Wendy MacDonald as chief of staff.