Havas has acquired the independent media agency Kaimera, a move that expands Havas Media Network’s presence in Australia and New Zealand and supports the rollout of Converged.AI, the group’s AI-driven, data-powered operating system.
Kaimera will become part of Havas Media Network and operate as 'Kaimera, a Havas Company.' Founded in 2016, the agency has grown to more than 50 staff across offices in Sydney and Melbourne, with team members in Auckland. Its clients include Nando’s, Scape, IMB bank, Afterpay and BritBox.
Kaimera’s management team, led by founders Nick Behr and Trent McMillan, will report to James Wright, Group CEO of Havas ANZ. The team will initially remain in its current locations in Surry Hills, Sydney, and South Melbourne, Melbourne. With the addition of Kaimera, Havas ANZ’s local workforce increases to more than 450.
The acquisition follows the introduction of Havas Group ANZ’s new positioning, “Deliberately Different,” which highlights its integrated structure across the region.
Yannick Bolloré, Chairman and CEO, Havas, said: "I’m delighted to welcome Nick Behr, Trent McMillan and the talented team at Kaimera to the Havas family. This deal reinforces our commitment to the Australian and New Zealand markets and our belief in the opportunity there with James and his leadership team. We have very clear ambitions across our Group, and bringing in Kaimera’s expertise and strong reputation will further strengthen our network and accelerate the deployment of our Converged.AI strategy, ensuring we deliver excellence for our clients."
James Wright, Group CEO, Havas ANZ, said: "The acquisition of Kaimera is a clear statement of our ambition in Australia and New Zealand. As part of our new ANZ business plan and positioning of being ‘deliberately different,’ we are focused on growth and entrepreneurial investment in the region. To deliver on this, we want to bring in the best talent and resources to deliver more powerful and meaningful results for our clients. We believe Kaimera’s culture, proven track record, and specialist capabilities are a perfect complement to our Group. We welcome Nick, Trent, and their team."
Nick Behr, CEO and Founder, Kaimera, said: "We need to stay future-focused for our clients and our people, and Havas is the perfect partner for this next chapter. The group has a clear vision and strong foundations for where it’s heading. Joining Havas gives us access to greater investment, scale, resources, tools and technology, particularly in AI, while allowing us to stay true to our culture and approach. Together, we can deliver even more meaningful growth for brands across Australia, New Zealand and beyond. We’re excited to begin this new chapter with James and the Havas team.”
