Lorenz Clormann becomes ECD at Wirz - Fernando Perez takes time out

With Lorenz Clormann, Wirz has signed up a top creative. He worked at Jung von Matt/Limmat for a total of six and a half years and at Publicis for two years. Among other things, he was responsible for the global presence of Swiss and launched the 20 minutes-Design edition for Samsung was probably one of the most controversial advertising projects of recent years - it polarized the readership and enraptured the award juries.

In projects like these, it quickly becomes clear that the advertiser always has the designer at heart: "My vision is that art plays a role right from the conception stage and grows with the process." Clormann is looking forward to the new challenge of being the only ECD with an art background to help shape the visual and conceptual signature of Wirz's campaigns. He would also like to convey his way of thinking to his new team in future: "I would like to set an example to all the young art talents to also get involved conceptually and accompany them on this path."

At Wirz Communications, Clormann succeeds Fernando Perez, who has been ECD at Wirz since 2014, co-owner since 2018 and is leaving the agency until further notice to take a creative break.

Werbewoche.ch asked the new Wirz-ECD about the reasons for his move.

Werbewoche.ch: Lorenz Clormann, what makes Wirz an exciting new employer?

Lorenz Clormann: Wirz has changed. The agency thinks and works without boundaries in all fields of creativity. Being a part of this and driving forward the innovative direction is very exciting.

What ultimately tipped the scales in favor of switching to Wirz?

Of course, there are lots of great people who I personally like very much, but I also really enjoy working with them. And as the only ECD with an art background, I can help shape the visual signature of the Wirz campaigns. I'm really looking forward to this challenge.

Were the job interviews conducted via Zoom or had the die been cast before the coronavirus crisis?

That was before corona and social distancing rules, so it was really close and cozy with Livio, with coffee and croissants.

New workplace - first impression?

I can now walk to work and see my family for lunch. So that's wonderful. Otherwise, of course, it's very quiet because of corona. I'm looking forward to seeing how it all develops.

You've been with Jung von Matt/Limmat since 2016 - a relatively long time. Were there no other challenges or career leaps at the agency?

I was already at Jung von Matt before Publicis, so six and a half years in total. In any case, it wasn't a decision against the agency, but one for my future. I lacked personal prospects at Jung von Matt.

What will you miss most about your time at Jung von Matt?

The people, of course. My team.

Our research showed that your Website has not been updated since 2010 - when will there be an update?

Ouch. That's a sore point. But I'm actually working on an update that won't feel like the late 90s and will feature current work. Until then, you can see my work on the latest media releases from Wirz.