Círculo Creativo today announced that Gustavo Lauría has been elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors. He succeeds Luis Miguel Messianu who, after two successful years as Chairman, announced his decision to step down from the board.

For the last two years, Lauría was the President at Círculo Creativo, a position he also held from 2010 to 2012. He is also the Co-founder and CCO at We Believers.

Working hand in hand with Messianu and Paco Vargas (General Manager), Lauría had the mission to revamp Círculo Creativo, making it a more inclusive association. Today, Círculo Creativo not only represents U.S. Hispanic advertising creatives, but also account planners, producers and executives at agencies, as well as Hispanic market production companies. Another major accomplishment was to more than double the number of memberships. Under this team, Círculo Creativo also revamped and independently produced the U.S.H. Idea Awards, significantly improving Círculo Creativo’s financial strength.

During his 20-year career, Gustavo has been recognized by all the International Awards shows winning several Gold Cannes Lions, One Show and D&AD Pencils among others.

Advertising Age also named Gustavo Lauría as one of the “Creativity 50 - The Most Creative People of the Year” in 2017.

Commenting on his appointment, Gustavo Lauría said: “Now is the time to be even more inclusive, we’ll be creating a new board of advisors with clients, celebrities, artists, engineers and influencers from the innovation world.”

Luis Miguel Messianu, former Chairman, commented: “It’s a matter of great pride for me to have been the first President of Círculo, and for the last two years it’s Chairman. I will always be part of this entity that is so close to my heart, but I feel it’s time to let Gustavo and the rest of the board keep pushing the creative agenda at this crucial moment of our industry. I know they will do an awesome job! I’ll still be around but more on a consulting role.”

In the coming weeks, Círculo Creativo’s board will receive different proposals from members who want to be considered to succeed Gustavo as the new President. During the month of April, Círculo Creativo will announce its new President, he/she will be working together with Lauría for the next two years.