Kiwibank explores new creative partnerships

As Kiwibank eyes the future, it is casting its net far and wide in the search for creative agencies to support the next phase of its growth.

Recently appointed head of brand and marketing Simon Hofmann says as Kiwibank evolves, the timing is right to take a fresh look at its creative capabilities.

Says Hofmann: “Kiwibank has an incredible brand that has been developed with a history of fantastic partners. To stay relevant and respect one of New Zealand’s most important brands we must constantly ensure we are challenging ourselves. The aim is to build a strong agency eco-system across all layers of the brand.

“We know we have an enviable and truly authentic position compared to our better resourced Australian-owned competitors. We want to continue leveraging that. 

“We are looking for partners who are keen to collaborate and work with us toward one common goal – to do the best they can for the Kiwibank brand every day and be part a connected part of our whanau.

“Kiwibank has done some great work with a group of agencies and individuals over the past 12 months and many of these partners will be involved in the process. We are also looking to open our conversations with the broader market. We’re looking forward to having our thinking challenged by the best of NZ who want to deliver the best for NZ.”

Kiwibank is looking to appoint a panel of creative agencies across strategy, brand communications, performance, campaign delivery and content with a strong understanding of the constantly evolving digital landscape.

Says Hofmann: “We get that traditional pitch processes can be time consuming, expensive and distracting so we are trying to ‘un-pitch’ it a little. The team is keen to make it as immersive as possible in place of big shiny presentations. We want to spend time in the agencies getting to know the people, understand what allows them to do great work and chat with existing clients around what makes their partnership hum.

“We know that it’s a tricky time of the year to be kicking this off so we’re taking a light touch approach pre-Christmas and certainly won’t be asking for any action over the summer break. This is reflective of the type of relationships we want to build.”

Hofmann says the location of agencies is not restricted, however, most of the team who deal with agencies day-to-day reside in Wellington.

Says Hofmann: “We’re simply looking for the best and brightest to join us from across New Zealand.”

Expressions of interest for agencies interested in having an initial conversation should be emailed to diana.young@kiwibank.co.nz by 12pm 18 December 2018.