He arrives from Pagan Films, where he focused on music videos, including a string of promos for Robbie Williams. His recent commercials credits include "everyday chic" for Clarks through St Luke's and the Williams-fronted "web 'n' walk" for T- Mobile through Saatchi & Saatchi. His long-time producer, Emily Morgan, joins with him.
Arnell was previously a director at the now defunct production company Godman, where he directed the award-winning "creek" for Levi's, and "red shoes" and "the good Samaritan" for Stella Artois with his former co-director Anthea Benton. He began his career as a runner at the Gordon Lewis Organisation, before moving to Chase Films.
Arnell said: "I want to get my nose down and do great commercials. Blink is a rock-steady commercials company and James is the best in town."
The Blink managing director, James Studholme, said: "The express goal is to move the focus of his work back to advertising and see him return to the form that saw him build his legendary status."
He added: "I am very excited about getting him the kind of work that I feel he should be doing."