Data Analyst

Chopstix appoints WPP Media's Mindshare to support expansion. The partnership will support the Pan-Asian QSR brand's continued expansion, with a focus on localised media strategy and new restaurant openings Editorial Series People moves, company launches, account wins and other business news. Chopstix has appointed WPP Media as its media planning and buying partner, with Mindshare tasked with supporting the Pan-Asian quick-service restaurant chain's continued expansion across the UK and into France. The appointment comes as Chopstix looks to build on its recent growth, having established more than 150 locations across the UK, including high streets, shopping centres and transport hubs. Mindshare's remit will cover both new and existing restaurants, with an initial focus on driving demand around store openings. As the partnership develops, the agency will also explore broader brand campaigns and new media channels to support Chopstix's longer-term growth ambitions. Central to the approach will be more sophisticated geo-targeted media planning, using audience data and insights to tailor activity to individual locations and ensure investment is directed towards areas with the greatest potential impact. Leanne Parker, head of marketing at Chopstix, said: "We're at a really exciting point as a business, and we wanted a partner who understands what it means to scale quickly without losing focus locally. Mindshare really got what we're trying to achieve - not just in terms of expansion, but in how we show up for customers around each restaurant. We're excited to get started and see what we can build together." Ben Chadd, executive vice president, clients at WPP Media, added: "Chopstix is a brilliant example of a brand with strong momentum and clear growth ambitions. Our focus will be on helping the team make the most of that momentum - using smart, localised media and the right mix of channels to support both new openings and long-term brand building. We're really looking forward to working together as the business continues to grow."

Dentsu's Nicola Barnes to join Mindshare & lead Sydney investment team. Published on: 13th October 2026 at 12:36 PM Nicola Barnes, dentsu Australia's head of investment, is set to join Mindshare, B&T can reveal. B&T understands Barnes will join the WPP-owned media agency to lead its Sydney investment team. Chris Ernst, chief practice officer, media at dentsu confirmed her departure. "After ten years with dentsu, Nicola will be leaving the business, marking the end of an incredible chapter," he told B&T. "Throughout her time with us, Nicola has been a highly respected leader who played a pivotal role in the success of iProspect, building deep and trusted relationships with clients and leading her teams with care and commitment. This year, she has also been an engaged and valued leader as we transitioned into the next chapter for dentsu, bringing our business closer together. "I have so much respect for Nic and am incredibly grateful for the contribution she has made to our business, our clients and our people over the past decade. We wish her every success and all the very best for what lies ahead." Barnes first joined Dentsu's Carat at the beginning of 2017 as Victorian investment director. The following year she took on the NSW role. She then joined fellow Dentsu-owned agency iProspect in 2021, first as group investment director for NSW, before adding Victoria to her remit nearly four years ago. Barnes is set to replace Mindshare's ex-head of investment Sydney Wayne Jarvis, who confirmed on LinkedIn in September that he has left the agency. "After 16 incredible years, today I officially sign off from Mindshare," he wrote. "I'm leaving with enormous gratitude for the people, friendships, lessons and opportunities that have shaped such a significant part of my career. Thank you to everyone who challenged me, supported me and made the journey so memorable." In May, Dentsu folded the iProspect and Carat brands in Australia, bringing its media brands together under a singular dentsu proposition. This left Marcelle Hoyek, the ex-national managing director of iProspect without a role. Leaving the door ajar for WPP Media to appoint Hoyek to lead its EssenceMediacom client portfolio in Sydney. Dentsu was recently awarded the Tobacco Cessation and Vaping Control account in partnership with Preventive Health SA, Tabcorp and Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) also extended Dentsu Queensland's contract for an additional two years, adding offline media buying to the agency's remit. Tabcorp was a significant win for Dentsu and its media practice lead Chris Ernst. The business would be one of the larger media accounts in the Dentsu stable after Woolworths. The agency has also recently lost Medibank, the WA Government and South Australian Tourism Commission's (SATC) Destination business. Mindshare declined to comment. Join more than 30,000 advertising industry experts Get all the latest advertising and media news direct to your inbox from B&T.