Yorkshire based creative behaviour change agency, Magpie, has appointed Kim Somerville as managing director to take forward an ambitious plan to make more positive social change.

Somerville is joined by new creative director, Rose Mountague, formally Creative Director at Epiphany (now Jaywing) and Dr Gráinne Dickerson, an experienced health psychologist as the new behavioural insights consultant. This new senior team is tasked with inspiring more positive behaviour that will create healthier and happier communities.

Co-founders Ged Savva and Becky Dam says, “We are extremely excited to have this talented team to help us address real issues in society that will mean Magpie is using our creative talents for more social good.”

Kim Somerville is a marketing strategist and previous charity CEO with 20 years experience creating positive social impact. She joined Magpie as director of impact a year ago having been a client of Magpie for 10 years.

Talking about her move to managing director within the agency, Somerville says, “Amazing things can happen when you blend behaviour change expertise with the best creative skills. Gráinne and Rose and the team of great campaigners around them have these skills in abundance. I’m excited to build upon my last year at Magpie and become the new Managing Director working with this team to create impactful campaigns which make a positive difference to people's lives.’’  

Over the last 12 months Magpie has worked with local authorities, NHS and third sector organisations on campaigns to prevent suicide; increase cancer screening appointments; stop smoking; reduce NHS over the counter prescription spend; increase active travel; increase levels of physical activity; and inspire COVID-19 compliance.

Creative director Rose and co-founder of She Does Digital, says “Our creative is designed to address life changing issues. Every campaign has meaning and is designed to make a real difference to real people.  The portfolio of work is incredibly rewarding and I’m excited to support a creative and talented team to inspire behaviour change..”

Dr Gráinne Dickerson, chair-elect of Behavioural Science and Public Health Network is also joining the senior leadership team.