Originally posted on Adweek by David Griner, June 8, 2020.
Leaders of the agency world used to be seen as names on doors, authors of books and fonts of quippy, quotable wisdom. Today’s best leaders, however, can be found operating at the ground level each day, leading by listening so they can stay in tune with the needs of their teams, their clients and the ever-evolving culture around them. Here are 26 names you should know when it comes to excellence in modern agency leadership:
Stephanie Nadi Olson
Fonder, We Are Rosie
Based in: Atlanta
On launching a freelancer-focused agency model: “What led me to take the leap to quit my well paying secure job in 2017 was an overwhelming sense of frustration with the lack of diversity and respect in our industry. My personal story as the daughter of a refugee has kept fellow marginalized people near to my heart. With zero funding, I bootstrapped We Are Rosie. It’s powered by a deep mission to create a better advertising industry.”
Advice to rising creatives: “Find your collaborators. I’ve seen actual magic happen when creatives come together beyond the traditional “creative duo” model. Find your media person, social media friend, production pal. Gathering your crew not only levels up your game, but it also lends itself to where this industry is going–a future where briefs are answered by unicorn teams to get the job done.”
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