Who knew the Barbarian Group would have such a busy hiring week? Along with Adam Lau coming aboard, the Cheil-owned digital shop has confirmed that it’s also hired the New York-based creative team of Thom Woodley and Stephen Petronis as senior copywriter and senior art director, respectively. It looks like facial hair came into play as part of the hiring process as TBG tells us, “These guys are a top creative team and they both have very nice beards. Their magic is real and we’re excited to add them to our growing arsenal” (FYI, that’s Woodley pictured sans beard).

Thom and Steve as they’re known have been working together for years, joining forces on digital campaigns for Dos Equis (example), Lacoste and The Atlantic while at Euro RSCG NY/4D and most recently at Publicis NY on accounts such as Pepto Bismol. Check out their portfolio here.

And while we’re on the Barbarian topic, to follow up on yesterday’s Ryan McManus update, NYC design/strategy shop Hard Candy Shell confirms that the former TBG senior AD will be joining up with its production team in a few weeks.