Featured image, clockwise from top left: Erin Rahn, Louise Simkin, Paul Linley, Harpreet Dhaliwal, Alessia Grosso, Justin Furman and Carly Schmidt

Havas Media Canada is strengthening its leadership team with a mix of new hires and promotions.

The agency, led by president Louise Simkin, says the changes are designed to make it more effective at delivering results and supporting clients through its media strategies.

Erin Rahn has joined as SVP of partnerships, taking over Scott Nelson’s previous duties after having left Havas in mid-2024 for Publicis Media. Rahn will lead how the agency invests media dollars and ensure strong returns. Rahn brings experience from roles at Cadreon, Kinesso and Magna Global.

Justin Furman has been named VP of growth – a newly created role – in charge of bringing in new business and shaping how the agency presents itself in the market. He previously held senior roles at Cossette Media, Sid Lee and EssenceMediacom.

And finally, Paul Linley has been promoted to VP of client experience, where he will focus on strengthening relationships with clients and improving service across accounts.

The appointments follow earlier leadership moves in 2025, including Harpreet Dhaliwal being promoted to EVP of client experience and operations, and Carly Schmidt taking on a bigger role as SVP of performance.

Compared to previous years, the leadership changes demonstrates a stronger push toward measurable performance and growth. It also highlights Havas Media Canada’s continued investment in combining media, data, and technology under one roof through its “Havas Village” approach.

“We’ve taken the time to build a team that reflects where we’re going,” Simkin said. “There’s real energy here, and I couldn’t be more confident in the team we’ve built.”