Cannes Lions announces more jury presidents

Jury presidents for the Direct, PR, and Promo & Activation categories have been announced at Cannes Lions 2012.

Gail Heimann, global vice chair of Weber Shandwick, will lead the judging of the PR Lions category.

"Public relations has been around for a while, but this is, unquestionably, its finest century," Heimann said. "Our work today transcends boundaries as we develop campaigns that touch, engage, incite and, ultimately, make a difference for our clients. I look forward to seeing – and being inspired by – the best of the best at the PR Lions this year."

Gideon Amichay, former chief creative officer and joint managing partner of Shalmor Avnon Amichay / Y&R Interactive Tel Aviv, Israel, from 1994-2011, will chair the Direct Lions jury.

"In the beginning there was direct. Today, everyone understands that touching people and building true relationships are at the heart of every message and every medium. Direct was, is and always will be the true essence of marketing. The art of relationship building, direct to the heart, and delivered by every technology, is the challenge of the communication world. I’m looking forward to meeting the Cannes Direct jury and to hunting together for every proven innovation in that art. It's a great honor for me to be the first Israeli Cannes jury president, coming from Israel's start-up culture of which I'm so proud," said Amichay of his appointment.

Nick Worthington, creative chairman of Colenso BBDO New Zealand, has been appointed this year’s Promo & Activation Lions jury president. Commenting on his appointment, Worthington said, "I'm honoured to be chosen as the president of the Promotion & Activation jury. I think it's one of the most exciting categories with some of the best work in the world happening in non-traditional media.”

Philip Thomas, chief executive officer of Cannes Lions, said, "With some exceptional work being entered into Cannes Lions, it's important that the people judging this work are at the forefront of their industry driving creativity. We're pleased to welcome Gail, Gideon and Nick, who as natural leaders and innovators, will ensure that the truly great work within their categories is recognised and awarded."