Lesley John Takes Helm as CEO to Lead VIRTUE Asia into New Era of Growth

VIRTUE Asia has appointed Lesley John as its CEO, marking a strategic restructure aimed at driving accelerated growth across the region. Under John’s leadership, VIRTUE Asia has expanded its teams in key markets, including Singapore and India, while continuing to partner with renowned global and regional brands such as Diageo, Toyota, and Shiseido. John, who has been with the company as Managing Director since 2021, brings extensive experience from her previous senior roles at MediaMonks, VCCP, Arcade, and BBH.

This restructure positions VIRTUE Asia to operate independently of VICE Media Group while maintaining collaboration with the VIRTUE Worldwide network on proprietary research and global client initiatives when relevant. The move reflects the agency’s commitment to agility and innovation in delivering creative solutions across the Asia-Pacific region.

John said, “This restructure represents an exciting new era for VIRTUE Asia, our people and clients. As we embark on a new chapter, the focus on creative innovation, cultural insight and meaningful partnerships remains unwavering.

“With greater autonomy and flexibility, our increased agility means we can meet the unique needs of brands across Asia, forge new alliances and tailor our approach to the region’s significant opportunities, while continuing to deliver the high standards that define VIRTUE,” she added.

John also shared that the company has plans to further invest in growing its team of specialists.

Chris Garbutt, president of VIRTUE Worldwide, said, “John’s appointment as CEO represents a new beginning for VIRTUE Asia. Operating independently, while maintaining collaborative ties with VIRTUE Worldwide will allow the agency to continue delivering innovative, culturally resonant work that drives real impact for clients. Under Lesley’s leadership, I look forward to watching the agency reach new heights and redefine what’s possible for brands in Asia.”

VIRTUE Asia isn’t the only agency to have made new appointments recently. Earlier this week, global PR agency FleishmanHillard appointed Thomas Skelton as regional lead of its research and analytics practice, TRUE Global Intelligence (TGI) in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. Skelton succeeds Michael Rinaman, who left the agency in 2024 to pursue other opportunities.

Based in Singapore, Skelton will oversee the growth and operation of TGI in APAC, driving the agency’s expanding research and analytics capabilities to deliver data-driven insights and solutions for clients across the region. He will report to Joanne Wong, APAC president and senior partner at FleishmanHillard.