Dive Brief: 

• DDB Chicago has named John Maxham as its new chief creative officer. 
• Maxham will replace Ewan Paterson, who left the agency in August to return to his hometown of London. 
• Prior to his recent four years at WPP's Cole & Weber, Maxham worked at DDB Chicago as group creative director of the AT&T account, so he already has experience with the agency. His return also follows the recent replacement of CEO Peter McGuinness with former Tribal DDB chief Paul Gunning, who Maxham will work alongside.

Dive Insight: 

Maxham's prior experience with the agency almost makes this hire a promotion rather than a new hire, which could serve DDB Chicago well. If, as they say, DDB Chicago is looking for someone to understand their Midwestern roots and the American consumer, Maxham may have advantages over London-born Paterson just because of his background.