Square in the Air appoints Ben Cleminson as CEO amid leadership changes

Marketing agency Square in the Air has promoted Ben Cleminson to CEO as part of a broader leadership restructure, with Founder and former Managing Director Bill Esdaile moving into the role of Chairman.

Cleminson, who joined the company in 2007 as its first employee, has been instrumental in building Square in the Air into a full-service marketing agency with a global client base and over 50 employees across offices in London, Manchester and New York.

As part of the new leadership team, former Director Ollie Drew, who has been with the company since 2009, will take on the role of Chief Operating Officer. Robin Hutchison, who joined in 2012, will become the Chief Commercial Officer. Both Drew and Hutchison will report to Esdaile, who founded the agency in 2006.

"It is almost 17 years to the day when I walked into that small side office in a house not too far from Stoke for my first day at Square in the Air," Cleminson said. "Although we haven't enjoyed quite the same growth as the nearby bet365, it has been an incredible journey, and I don't think Bill or I could ever have imagined back then where we'd be today."

"I know both Ollie and Robin would agree with me when I say that Bill has been the most incredible mentor and leader, and personally I am truly honoured to step up into the CEO role. We have a brilliant roster of clients and a hugely talented team who push themselves every day to think creatively and strategically, always focused on delivering results. We'll continue to do that and more," he added.

Esdaile, reflecting on his transition to Chairman, said: "I've been extremely lucky to have had the loyalty and support of Ben, Ollie and Robin for over 40 years between them. The time is right for me to step into a new role as Chairman where I can still strategically be involved but allow the three of them their chance to run the business. I'm so grateful for their hard work and dedication, and I look forward to Square in the Air continuing to blossom."

Square in the Air specializes in marketing services for operators, suppliers and affiliates across sports, betting and gaming. Its offerings include digital and traditional PR, social media and influencer management, ambassador and sponsorship activation, design and branding, video and content production, and performance marketing.