BrazilJWI acquired by longstanding managing director Charli Wright
Charli Wright, managing director of JWI, has completed the acquisition of the firm’s shares from company founder John Wilford.
Founded in 2000, JWI today works for numerous well-known brands including Gillette, Braun, Bacardi, Vodka, Patron Tequila, Epson and Philips. The firm specialises in three lines of business: creative advertising, integrated media campaigns, and events management.
The transfer of ownership from John Wilford to Charli Wright marks a natural evolution of the business – last year the company founder formally announced his retirement, with Wright in the hot seat to take over the company’s ownership. Wright led the setup and growth of the Dubai presence, over the past decade building the office out into a trusted player in the Gulf.
“It has been an incredible journey building JWI in Dubai, and I am immensely proud of what the team has achieved. Watching Charli grow and lead JWI has been a privilege, and her ambition and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in JWI’s success,” said Wilford. “Selling JWI to Charli feels like a natural and positive step and I am delighted to be passing the torch, knowing that JWI is in such capable hands.”
Commenting on the milestone, Wright said: “JWI has always felt like mine in spirit, and I’m thrilled to say it’s now mine on paper. My vision is to build the best agency to work for – and the best agency to work with. That’s the standard we hold ourselves to every day. Our mantra ‘Go Beyond’ isn’t just a line – it defines how we show up for our clients and each other.”
Despite its boutique size, JWI often manages to punch above its weight, winning new business over global network agencies. “Now entering our tenth year in the region, we’re showing no signs of slowing down. With new talent, systems and clients in place, JWI is ready to keep delivering standout work, while challenging the traditional agency model,” Wright said.
Financial terms and conditions of the management buy-in have not been disclosed.
