Welcome to Agency Business.

This week, Brian interviews Kat Ott, president of Havas Chicago.

Kat’s unconventional path into advertising—from professional ballerina to agency president—shapes her perspective as what she calls a “modern marketer.” She explains how Havas Chicago operates like a speedboat: integrated, mid-size, and agile enough to make quick turns that larger holding companies can’t.

She also describes how Havas Chicago won Stanley Steemer after competing in a pitch that started with 50 agencies. The scale of that process shows how competitive the pitch market has become—and how agencies must invest heavily to stand out.

Plus, News of the Week, with analysis of the headlines impacting agencies today:

• WPP wins MasterCard, while Dentsu retains Vodafone
• Accenture acquires influencer agency Super Digital
• Gravity Global buys Marketing Doctor

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Reach Out

Agency Business features agency CEOs and financial decision-makers alongside third party experts including agency pitch consultants. We are always accepting pitches, and are particularly interested in hearing from women and leaders of color.

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📩 Brian at [email protected]

📩 Olivia at [email protected]

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📊 The Madison and Wall Podcast – Brian opens up about his latest work — plus crucial economic, financial, and industry trends.

🎬 Screen & Sponsor – Olivia & VaynerMedia's Jessie Holder explore how brands are shaping Hollywood.