Award-winning creative duo Xander Hart and Edward Usher leave Adam+EveDDB to become Creative Partners at exciting new hotshop
Ex WCRS and Adam+EveDDB Producer, Hannah Needham becomes ARK Agency’s Production Partner
LONDON, Thursday 27 February 2025: ARK Agency is excited to announce the appointment of three industry-leading talents to its newly established leadership team. Xander Hart and Edward Usher join as Creative Partners, while Hannah Needham steps into the role of Production Partner. Together, they will play a pivotal role in shaping ARK’s creative output and driving its expansion.
After an eye-catching first six months, ARK has made a deliberate move to bring on some of the most talented creative thinkers and makers in the industry. These appointments mark a significant milestone in ARK’s journey to redefine creativity for brands and break away from legacy agency structures.
As ARK enters its next phase, Hart, Usher, and Needham will take on key leadership roles, actively shaping creative thinking, innovation, and execution across the agency’s portfolio of brands. Unlike traditional agency models, ARK fosters a fluid and dynamic approach to creative disciplines, with the new leadership team spearheading both Creative Thinking and Creative Making.
As AdWeek recently noted, Hart and Usher are among the most innovative and visionary talents in the industry today. Their groundbreaking work for brands like The V&A, PlayStation, John Lewis, the International Paralympic Committee, BBC, and Virgin Media showcases their ability to push creative boundaries and engage with the full creative economy. Their appointment underscores ARK Agency’s mission to pioneer a new type of commercial creativity shaped for the world today.
Mat Goff, Co-Founder, ARK Agency commented: “Edward and Xander are a new breed of creative leaders. I’ve worked closely with them in the past and seen just how outstandingly talented they are. The way they think, the way they collaborate, the kind of ideas that excite them, and the level of craft they pour into their work make them the perfect Creative Partners for where ARK Agency is heading.”
Xander Hart, Creative Partner, ARK Agency said: “We are thrilled to be joining the ARK team after their barnstorming first six months. We share the same creative ambition as well as a desire to challenge the conventions of how creativity is brought to life for brands. It’s an incredibly exciting mission, and we couldn’t be more excited to be part of it.”
Edward Usher, Creative Partner, ARK Agency added: “We’ve always aimed to make genuinely original, industry-leading work that stands out for its craft as well as its effectiveness, and ARK is without doubt the perfect place for us to do it. Mike and Mat are building something truly special here and we are chomping at the bit to get going.
A force in modern production, Needham brings a unique blend of leadership, innovation, and craft excellence. Her extensive experience spans global brands such as PlayStation, Lionsgate, the International Paralympic Committee, The V&A and Eurostar. Hannah has already played a fundamental role in ARK’s first six months, ensuring creative visions are brought to life at the highest level.
Mike Wilton, Co-Founder, ARK Agency added: “Hannah represents a new style of production expertise. Her relentless pursuit of excellence and craft is only matched by her versatility and leadership in forging new shapes of creative answers. She is an incredible asset to ARK’s leadership team.”
Hannah Needham, Production Partner, ARK Agency commented: “ARK is all about bold ideas and flawless execution, and I’m excited to help shape its future. The last six months have been an incredible journey, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
With these key hires, ARK continues to challenge traditional agency models and looks to set new standards for creative excellence. As the agency scales Hart, Usher, and Needham will be instrumental in shaping the agency’s creative direction, overseeing its growing team, and ensuring every project is executed with the highest level of craft and innovation.
Their responsibilities will extend beyond exceptional work, into nurturing fresh talent and ensuring the agency remains at the forefront of industry innovation. They will report directly to ARK’s Founders, Mat Goff and Mike Wilton. Hart and Usher will officially start on May 7th. Needham’s appointment is effective immediately.
