AKQA strengthens leadership team with four key promotions

AKQA Americas has announced the promotion of David Buckley to Chief Strategy Officer, along with Kristin Goto to VP, Managing Director, Sarah Cunningham and Carla Cartwright to Managing Director.

AKQA is proud to announce the promotion of four distinguished leaders within its Americas region, reinforcing AKQA’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and client success. David, Kristin, Sarah, and Carla will each take on critical leadership roles, ensuring strategic leadership and expertise that drive exceptional outcomes.

This follows the recent introduction of AKQA Americas’ regional structure, which brings operations together, featuring three integrated portfolios. Designed to foster a more seamless, client-focused approach, this evolution aligns leadership with the new framework, empowering each portfolio with deep industry expertise, a bold strategic vision, and a commitment to world-class creativity.

David Buckley, newly appointed Chief Strategy Officer, will play a pivotal role in shaping AKQA Americas’ strategic direction and fostering regional growth. Reporting directly to AKQA Americas CEO Tesa Aragones, David will drive innovation and ensure AKQA continues to set the benchmark for strategic excellence. With 25 years of experience in global brand and marketing strategy and more than 12 years at AKQA, David has proven his expertise in finding innovative solutions to difficult problems for some of the world’s most beloved brands. As Chief Strategy Officer, he will lead transformative initiatives that elevate client success. He will join the Americas leadership team, strengthening the region’s collaborative leadership approach.

With over 25 years of experience in global marketing leadership, including 14 years with AKQA, Kristin Goto brings a deep expertise in digital acceleration and business performance. Throughout her tenure, she has successfully led client service, creative, and technical production teams, delivering award-winning work on a global scale. As VP Managing Director, leading her portfolio within the region, Kristin will drive the strategic direction, helping clients unlock new opportunities through innovative digital solutions.

Sarah Cunnigham, formerly Head of Client Services, has been instrumental in leading client performance while overseeing multiple large-scale brand partnerships. Since joining AKQA in 2015, she has ensured best-in-class service and business growth. In her new role as Managing Director, leading a portfolio, she will continue to foster strong client relationships, drive growth, and set the standard for excellence in client engagement.

Carla Cartwright, previously General Manager, brings over 20 years of experience in integrated marketing and digital products and services to her new role as Managing Director. Prior to her GM role, she served as Client Services Director, developing and executing impactful brand and digital strategies across corporate and nonprofit sectors. In her new role, she will guide her portfolio’s vision and execution, ensuring clients benefit from AKQA’s world-class strategic and creative expertise.

Kristin, Sarah, and Carla will report directly to Giles McCormack, Chief Client Officer of AKQA Americas, who said: “This range of promotions is a true testament to the impact these incredible leaders have made on our business over the years. I’m proud to work alongside all of them, and as AKQA enters a new era, I’m excited to see them grow and continue to drive our creativity and innovation agenda in partnership with our clients.”

Tesa Aragones, CEO of AKQA Americas, said: “David’s appointment as Chief Strategy Officer is a key milestone for our Americas growth. I am delighted to welcome him to the Americas Leadership Team. His expertise will be instrumental in advancing our strategic vision and ensuring we continue to lead in innovation. Kristin, Sarah, and Carla embody the strength of our people and truly understand what it means to create a better future. Their talent and dedication to our clients are unmatched, and I couldn’t be more proud of what each of them has accomplished. I am excited to see what they will bring to their new roles.”