
In his new role, Nicol reports to PHD North's managing director, Jason Spencer, and works across the agency's client base, alongside planning director Lorraine Jones.
He brings seven years' experience from rival MediaVest Manchester, where he was most recently associate director.
His move follows a series of account wins at PHD North in the last year, including Canary Islands Tourism and .
Spencer said: "PHD North has grown by offering clients a different, more creative approach to media planning and buying. In this newly created role, Rob will be instrumental in our continued success."
PHD North's client roster also includes AG Barr, Northwest Development Agency and CrossCountry trains.