Jason Xenopoulos named CEO of VML New York

Mel Routhier will move into a North America Chief Creative Officer role, where she will partner with Tom Murphy, North America Chief Creative Officer

e4m by e4m Staff
Published: Jan 28, 2026 4:04 PM  | 2 min read
Jason Xenopoulos named CEO of VML New York
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VML has announced strategic leadership appointments to boost its creative and key office leadership in North America. Jason Xenopoulos has been named CEO of VML New York and Chief Creative Officer, Global Accounts. In his dual role, Xenopoulos will be responsible for driving growth, innovation, and cultural excellence for VML's New York office, while also providing overarching creative leadership for some of the agency's largest global clients, including Ford Motor Company. He brings a proven track record of leading agencies, delivering award-winning work, and integrating strategic business objectives with groundbreaking creative solutions. 

“I see these dual roles as an opportunity to do great creative work for some of our largest clients, while helping to shape and grow a great creative agency. I have always believed that creativity and business impact are two sides of the same coin — the best way to excel at one is to excel at both. VML New York has grown into a creative powerhouse, and I’m excited to help steer its continued success”, Jason Xenopoulos, Newly Announced, CEO VML NY, CCO Global Accounts

Further strengthening VML's creative leadership, Mel Routhier will move into a North America Chief Creative Officer role, where she will partner with Tom Murphy, North America Chief Creative Officer, to lead VML's creative vision and output across its diverse client roster. Routhier, known for her focused creative vision and ability to inspire teams, will play a critical role in fostering a culture of creativity and crafting impactful brand experiences.

“It's an honor to step into this North America CCO role alongside Tom. VML's creative ambition is boundless, and I'm thrilled to help shape our next chapter, driving strong creative solutions and ensuring our work resonates deeply with audiences and delivers undeniable results for our clients”, Mel Routhier, Newly Announced, North America CCO.

"Jason and Mel will make an incredible impact in these pivotal roles," said Debbi Vandeven, Global Chief Creative Officer at VML. "Jason's unique blend of strategic business acumen and creative firepower will be invaluable as we continue to grow our New York office and elevate our global client work. Mel's visionary leadership and proven ability to craft groundbreaking human-first ideas will ensure that our creative continues to shape the industry.” These appointments are effective immediately. 

Published On: Jan 28, 2026 4:04 PM