McCann Worldgroup has hired DDB’s Patrick Rona as its first chief digital officer for Asia Pacific, as the ad network looks to “keep pace” with advances in digital media.

Rona joins the IPG-owned agency from his role as chief digital officer for Asia Pacific across DDB Group’s agencies, including DDB, Tribal Worldwide and Rapp. He took up the position in 2012, following two years as the group’s digital chief for the EMEA region.

Prior to joining DDB, Rona held senior digital roles at agencies including OgilvyOne, Craik Jones, Digitas and Agency.com.

In a statement shared with Mumbrella, Charles Cadell, McCann’s regional president, said the new position will help make digital a “strategic imperative” at the business.“Digital constantly evolves, to remain competitive, we must keep pace to ensure we are providing our clients with richer, innovative solutions that ignite new opportunities in order to engage and interact with consumers to build relationships and revenue growth,” said Cadell.

Rona added: “Since moving to Asia three years ago, I’ve watched McCann’s business and creative growth with great admiration. I can’t wait to start working with [Cadell] and the rest of the team to help accelerate this growth and to continue elevate our digital offering across the region.”