Sarah Bailey, Managing Director, VML
“I have worked with Rhys Thomas, Group Business Director, for six years, for the duration of his employment at VML. Rhys has been a much-loved and key member of our agency team and someone who I have enjoyed working with immensely. He is smart, and a real advocate for delivering strong creative work as a means to achieve business goals. He seeks clarity on all requirements and in turn, ensures he is clear in the way he manages both internal and external stakeholders. He has been a wonderful support to VML’s executive team and someone we have grown to rely on.
At VML Rhys has led client engagement teams on integrated accounts such as Australian Unity, Honest Eggs Co and Australian Defence Force Careers. The work he led for Honest Eggs Co was recognised around the world in creative and innovation categories and ultimately secured a Gold Lion at Cannes. For the past few years, Rhys has led the ADF Careers account which has seen him directly oversee a team of ten and be the main point of contact for the client. Rhys has been a wonderful, empathetic leader with a focus on skill development and a true partner to the client team. Within the agency he has established strong partnerships with the creative, strategy and production departments, fostering a high performing and respectful team culture.
He led a major Masterbrand project, as well as the development and delivery of a new online environment, both of which required intense stakeholder engagement with the Commonwealth as well as the clients in Adecco. The candidate recruitment results since the launch of both projects in 2024 have exceeded all expectations.
Rhys is organised, dedicated and popular. I would be happy to recommend him as a valuable addition to any agency or client team and speak to a potential hiring manager regarding the above.”
Justin Stanic, Head of Marketing, Defence Force Recruitment
“Rhys is highly focused upon delivering excellence and engages very well with the team to co-create outstanding strategic and creative outcomes. Under Rhys’s stewardship outstanding work has consistently been developed and delivered for DFR.
Rhys has engaged very proactively in long-term strategic planning for DFR and has been a very strong partner in the development and implementation of strategy. Rhys is a pleasure to work with, engaging in a highly collaborative way and driving for win-win outcomes.”
Charlie Kuster, Account Director, VML
“Rhys is a dedicated and passionate manager who truly knows how to bring out the best in his team. He creates a supportive environment where everyone feels valued, and he has an incredible ability to build trust with those around him. He’s also great at providing opportunities for growth, whether you’re just starting out or already experienced - something that’s had a real impact on my own development.
Above all, Rhys leads with people at the forefront, inspiring confidence and motivating everyone to bring their A-game”