Big news: we’ve welcomed two exceptional leaders to Charlie Oscar as we continue investing in the next phase of our growth.
Matt Russell joins as Head of Client Leadership, and Malik James-Williams joins as Head of AI Operations, both bringing experience from WPP and a shared ambition to help build the agency model of the future.
Why these hires matter
As Charlie Oscar grows, we’re focused on building an agency that’s designed for where marketing is heading, not where it’s been.
That means combining strategic consultancy, creator marketing, media activation and marketing science with the systems, technology and operational excellence needed to scale it all effectively.
Matt and Malik strengthen both sides of that equation.
Matt will lead our Client Leadership function, helping brands unlock greater growth by connecting strategy, media, creative and measurement more effectively. He brings deep experience working with ambitious brands and a track record of building long-term client partnerships that deliver real commercial impact.
Malik joins in a newly created role as Head of AI Operations, where he’ll help scale Charlie Oscar OS and accelerate how AI, automation and knowledge systems are embedded across the business.
Going beyond AI experimentation
There’s no shortage of conversation about AI in our industry right now.
For us, the opportunity has always been bigger than adopting new tools. It’s about fundamentally rethinking how agencies operate.
Malik’s experience building AI solutions for Google’s advertising business makes him uniquely placed to help us do exactly that. His focus will be on creating smarter workflows, stronger knowledge systems and operational advantages that benefit both our teams and our clients.
Simply put: helping us move faster, learn quicker and deliver better work.
A reflection of where we're heading
These appointments come at a time of continued momentum for Charlie Oscar, following sustained client growth, team expansion and ongoing investment in new capabilities.
More importantly, they reflect the kind of business we’re building.
One that’s equally committed to strategic excellence and operational innovation. One that embraces creator-first thinking, marketing science and AI as connected disciplines rather than separate services.
Most importantly, Matt and Malik are brilliant people who share our ambition, curiosity and belief that the agency model can be better.
We’re excited to have them on board and can’t wait to see what we build together.
