Augusto makes waves in New York with film release, new clients and new appointments

Augusto is gearing up its New York operation having recently secured distribution of its feature film Chasing Great through the US and Canada via Abramorama, and a new client relationship with the New York Red Bulls Soccer Club.

This was celebrated on Wednesday evening at the US Premier of Chasing Great where guests packed out the Cinépolis Theatre in New York. Hosted by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, guests were treated to a panel discussion with the GM of the Brooklyn Nets, Sean Marks, New Zealand trade commissioner – consul general Beatrice Faumuina, AIG’s global head of sponsorship Danny Glantz, and Augusto CEO and Chasing Great director, Michelle Walshe

Says Walshe: “We’re very stoked to be bringing this film to the US and Canada. These are still growing markets for rugby, but Richie’s story and his drive to be the best is proving universal in its appeal.”

While Walshe splits her time between New York and New Zealand, co-founder Leon Kirkbeck is capitalising on the recent momentum by taking up a long-term posting in New York in Canal Street.

Says Kirkbeck: “The opportunities here are limitless. New Zealand’s global reputation as storytellers and innovators really opens doors here, and with the support of NZTE we’re now making some real headway with the New York operation.”

They’re joined by new recruit and fellow kiwi, Bridie Picot, who moved to New York in 2001 and most recently worked at Mother New York. At Mother Picot spent five years running Tanqueray global and an experiential program for Microsoft across the US which, included a dinner for 50 sheep at Art Basel in Miami.

Says Picot: “Augusto New Zealand is such a special company, with the rare combination of great people, work and clients. I’m excited to be on board at such an early stage to help grow the business in the US with these lovely people.”

In her spare time Picot designs products for her homeware company Thing Industries.