Agency Business

Jared Belsky, CEO and co-founder of Acadia, discusses his journey from leading 360i to founding a mid-market agency focused on operational efficiency and client trust. He criticizes principal-based media buying as harmful to client relationships, advocating for transparency. Jared shares insights on navigating industry challenges, including Publicis’ high employee churn and the implications for talent retention. The conversation also touches on recent trends in sports marketing acquisitions and the shift towards project-based agency-client engagements.

José Villa, founder of Sensis, a prominent cross-cultural agency, dives into the evolution of his firm from a Spanish-language website creator to a full-service advertising powerhouse. He discusses the power of research and strategy in driving agency growth and the significance of integrating diverse cultural elements in marketing. José explores the current landscape of multicultural marketing, addressing the complexities of DEI challenges and how brands balance caution with spending. He also shares insights on the operational dynamics and future opportunities within the multicultural agency sector.

Nicole Estebanell, the U.S. CEO of Mediahub, shares her insights after a successful career in media roles, including leadership positions at Nike and Initiative. She highlights the challenge of leading a challenger agency within a giant media network and discusses the importance of blending creativity with performance. Estebanell reveals how Mediahub adapts to evolving client demands and maintains its innovative spirit while scaling. The conversation also dives into the landscape of influencer marketing and the strategic decisions media agencies face in this dynamic environment.

Jon Cook, CEO of VML, a leading global marketing agency, shares insights from his 29 years with the company. He discusses VML's evolution through significant mergers, blending creativity and technology, and the role of their Enterprise Solutions group in driving success. Jon emphasizes the agency’s investment in AI and its adaptation to geopolitical challenges while maintaining core values like DEI. The conversation dives into navigating a competitive market and the balance of brand power amidst financial dynamics.

Simon Hill, U.S. president of FutureBrand, is a branding expert shaping strategies for top companies. He delves into how FutureBrand navigates critical changes like M&A and category disruptions. Simon discusses balancing project-based work with long-term partnerships and the growing priority of brand experience for clients. He also examines competition with management consultancies, the complexities of talent acquisition, and the significance of brand investment amid economic uncertainty.

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.