Kent Panther has been promoted to executive vice president for Wray Ward, an integrated marketing communications agency specializing in the home and building category.

In his new role, Panther will oversee business development, client engagement and project management, fostering better connection between the critical client acquisition, service and delivery areas.

“Kent’s leadership will bring synergies, strength and support to our new business, client engagement, project management and resourcing teams,” said Wray Ward President and Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Appleby. “Kent’s experience and collaborative approach ensure these important areas work more closely than ever to ensure better-performing work for our clients and continued growth for Wray Ward.”

Panther joined Wray Ward as head of insights and brand strategy in 2004, leading accounts and guiding strategic planning. His role quickly grew to include managing the agency’s growing business development activities and fostering industry relationships. During his tenure as vice president, he formed close partnerships with research groups and industry associations, including the American Institute of Architects (AIA), The Farnsworth Group, Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI) and Research in the Cooking and Kitchen Industries (RICKI).

For nearly 15 years prior to joining Wray Ward, Panther held ownership, management and supervisor positions at several agencies in the southeast where he worked with brands including Coco-Cola, Michelin, Lowe’s and more.

A graduate of Miami University with a bachelor’s of science degree in marketing, Panther is a long-time volunteer of his time to industry and community groups. He currently serves as a Global Connect Advisor for the National Kitchen & Bath Association and is on the advisory council of the Boys & Girls Clubs.