AKQA Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

AKQA has 4 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, strategy, and human resources.

Driven by innovation, AKQA delivers custom IT software, advertising, and marketing services, shaping market impact through strategic leadership and operational excellence.

Leadership Roles at AKQA

  • Chief Executive Officer (Americas) - Helder Santo
  • President & Chief Operating Officer - James Rossman
  • Chief Technology Officer (APAC) - Eric Orton
  • Chief People Officer (Americas) - Katje Chiller
  • Helder Santo - Chief Executive Officer (Americas)

    Helder Santo, the Chief Executive Officer (Americas) at AKQA, sets the strategic direction and drives business growth for the company throughout the Americas region. This executive leadership role encompasses overseeing all aspects of AKQA's operations, including custom IT software development, advertising, and marketing services, ensuring alignment with global objectives. Santo fosters a culture of innovation and client-centricity, guiding teams to deliver exceptional value and measurable results. The Chief Executive Officer (Americas) is responsible for expanding market presence, forging key partnerships, and ensuring the company's financial health and operational excellence within the region. By championing strategic initiatives and cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders, Helder Santo solidifies AKQA's leadership position and drives forward its mission to create transformative experiences for clients across North and South America.
    Helder Santo

    James Rossman - President & Chief Operating Officer

    James Rossman, the President & Chief Operating Officer at AKQA, directs the company's day-to-day operations and overall strategic execution. This executive leadership position involves optimizing business processes, ensuring operational efficiency, and driving growth across all service lines, including custom IT software, advertising, and marketing. Rossman collaborates closely with other C-suite leaders to align operational strategies with the company's mission and market objectives. The President & Chief Operating Officer oversees resource allocation, manages cross-functional teams, and implements best practices to enhance productivity and service quality. By focusing on scalable operational frameworks, James Rossman ensures AKQA can effectively serve its diverse client base and adapt to evolving market demands. This role is critical in translating strategic vision into tangible business outcomes, reinforcing AKQA's position as a leader in its industry through disciplined execution and continuous improvement.

    Eric Orton - Chief Technology Officer (APAC)

    Eric Orton, the Chief Technology Officer (APAC) at AKQA, architects and directs the company's technological vision and execution across the Asia-Pacific region. This leadership role involves overseeing the development and implementation of custom IT software solutions that directly support AKQA's advertising and marketing services. Orton ensures that technological infrastructure scales effectively to meet client demands and drives innovation in digital service delivery. By fostering collaboration between engineering teams and client-facing strategists, the Chief Technology Officer (APAC) guarantees that technology solutions are seamlessly integrated with marketing campaigns, enhancing overall service offerings. This focus on advanced technology underpins AKQA's commitment to delivering cutting-edge digital experiences and maintaining a competitive edge in the dynamic APAC market. Eric Orton's strategic oversight ensures robust, scalable, and secure technological frameworks are in place, directly contributing to the company's operational efficiency and client satisfaction across the region.
    Eric Orton

    Katje Chiller - Chief People Officer (Americas)

    Katje Chiller, the Chief People Officer (Americas) at AKQA, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives across the Americas. This critical role focuses on cultivating a high-performance culture, attracting and retaining top talent, and developing comprehensive employee programs that support AKQA's business objectives. Chiller oversees all people-related functions, including organizational development, compensation and benefits, employee relations, and diversity and inclusion efforts. By ensuring a robust and supportive work environment, the Chief People Officer (Americas) directly contributes to the company's ability to deliver innovative IT software, advertising, and marketing services. Katje Chiller's strategic approach to human capital management empowers employees and aligns people strategies with the company's overall mission, fostering engagement and driving operational success throughout the region.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding AKQA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads AKQA?
    AKQA is led by Helder Santo (Chief Executive Officer (Americas)), along with executives such as James Rossman (President & Chief Operating Officer) and Eric Orton (Chief Technology Officer (APAC)).
    Who is part of AKQA’s executive team?
    The executive team of AKQA includes leaders such as Helder Santo (Chief Executive Officer (Americas)), James Rossman (President & Chief Operating Officer), Eric Orton (Chief Technology Officer (APAC)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does AKQA have?
    AKQA has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in AKQA’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of AKQA includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer (Americas), President & Chief Operating Officer, Chief Technology Officer (APAC), Chief People Officer (Americas).