Agency Business

Lisa Clunie, co-founder and CEO of JOAN, a pioneering independent creative firm, shares her journey from New York to Berlin and London. She discusses the innovative production and influencer marketing strategies that keep JOAN agile and values-driven. Lisa highlights the need for integration across creative and media functions to navigate today's complex marketing landscape. The conversation also delves into how companies can balance ambition with client needs, especially amidst geopolitical tensions and the evolving demands of creative agency models.

Kate O’Brien, founder of Powers of Reasoning and a former executive at Omnicom Media Group, delves into the complexities of media compensation models. She shares her insights on balancing senior talent with client demands for efficiency, emphasizing transparency in media buying. The conversation highlights the tension between performance-based models and creating genuine partnerships. Kate also discusses the impact of recent leadership changes at GroupM and the evolving dynamics of agency-client relationships, shedding light on how agencies can adapt to economic uncertainties.

Jane Crisan, CEO of Rain the Growth Agency, shares insights from her extensive background in digital marketing and leadership. She discusses how independent agencies like hers are thriving amid market uncertainty by integrating creative and media strategies. Jane highlights the importance of technology in driving client growth and the agency's performance-driven approach. Alongside co-hosts, she delves into client relationships in advertising, the challenges of navigating industry changes, and the transformative role of AI in marketing.

Kern Schireson, Chairman & CEO of Known, shares his insights on the future of marketing agencies, drawing from his experience at Viacom. He discusses the pitfalls of traditional agency structures, particularly the divide between media and creative, and advocates for a more integrated approach. Kern emphasizes how AI is revolutionizing media performance and the necessity for agencies to be aligned with client outcomes. The conversation also touches on the rising role of independent agencies in a changing landscape and the impact of strategic acquisitions on agency innovation.

Bob Lord, President of Horizon Media Holdings, dives into how Horizon is redefining the agency model with a focus on AI and performance-based pricing. He highlights the industry's 'Great Marketing Emergency' due to its slow tech adoption. Lord discusses the proprietary platform Blu+, which enhances agency-client control, and emphasizes the growing trend towards transparency. He also explores the evolving dynamics between media and creative, noting that today’s tech-savvy CMOs are driving change, positioning independent agencies for success.

Tim Nollen, a seasoned sell-side analyst at Macquarie Group with a background at J.P. Morgan and Bear Stearns, dives deep into the challenges faced by agency holding companies. He discusses financial strains and evolving client needs, spotlighting how agencies must adapt to stay competitive against consulting firms and ad tech. Tim also touches on the complexities of media and creative integration, and shares insights about leadership changes within major firms like WPP and their impact on organizational culture.

Kevin Wassong, founder and CEO of mktg.ai, shares his extensive experience in digital marketing and AI. He discusses the ongoing divide between creative and media in marketing and how AI is revolutionizing content production. Despite the overwhelming volume of assets marketers face, Wassong presents a solution with a 'creative operating system' designed to optimize content performance. He also addresses the financial struggles within major advertising agencies and the need for integration in a rapidly changing landscape.

Samir Balwani, Founder and CEO of QRY, a media buying agency known for enhancing brand awareness among mid-sized brands, chats with hosts Olivia Morley and Brian Wieser. They delve into the changing landscape of media agencies and the struggle mid-sized companies face with brand investments. Samir discusses bridging performance marketing with brand-building, the significance of media forecasting, and how to alleviate CFO fears about long-term marketing returns. The conversation also touches on the need for strategic growth and the evolving role of independent agencies.

Chrissie Hanson, CEO of OMD USA, shares her extensive background in media buying and planning, emphasizing how it informs her leadership style. She discusses the evolving role of media agencies, blending creativity with data-driven strategies. Chrissie reflects on her journey from strategist to CEO, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and consumer insights. The conversation also covers strategic acquisitions, the need for innovative agency cultures, and maintaining brand integrity in a fast-paced media landscape.

Ruben Schreurs, Group Chief Executive of Ebiquity and an expert in media audits, dives into the intricate world of media investment. He discusses how brands can optimize ad spending through transparency and data-driven insights. The conversation covers common pitfalls in media strategies and the evolving role of finance teams in decision-making. Ruben emphasizes that cost efficiency doesn’t always equate to effectiveness and offers practical steps for brands to enhance their media performance across various channels.