FCB Health Network announced today that Marcus “Kawa” Kawamura has joined AREA 23 as executive creative director, reporting to chief creative officer Tim Hawkey. Kawamura will work closely with Hawkey to develop groundbreaking ideas that help clients reach their audiences in new and innovative ways.

“We are so excited that Kawa is joining AREA 23, as he is a legend in the industry and I’ve been following his work and career for years,” said Hawkey. “Kawa will undoubtedly contribute to our mission to solve the world’s biggest health-communication problems with jaw-dropping creativity. Our agency values are Passion, Curiosity, Boldness and Entrepreneurship, and Kawa embodies all of these qualities hands down.”

An award-winning creative with 20 years of experience in art direction, design and more, Kawamura has worked at top creative agencies such as Crispin Porter Bogusky, The Community, AlmapBBDO, Africa, DM9DDB and Leo Burnett. His creative portfolio spans global consumer brands such as Volkswagen, Infiniti, Verizon, Pepsi, AB InBev, Marriott Hotels, Visa, Havaianas, Pedigree, Letgo and FIFA, among others.

“I was drawn to AREA 23 because they have transformed pharma advertising with their pioneering spirit and creative mindset,” Kawamura said. “I am strongly aligned with the agency’s commitment to exceptional craft, which has consistently led to outstanding creative results. I’m excited to have the opportunity to help the team continue to raise the creative bar in unique ways.”