Reproduced from a conversation originally recorded in December of 2020

This episode of CMA Connect features Stephen Brown, CEO of successful Canadian-based creative agency FUSE Create. The winner of CMA's 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award, Stephen describes the role that agencies play in today's marketing landscape. He shares how agencies can build back better in 2021 and beyond , as well as what young emerging marketers can do to get into the industry.

Here's some of what John Wiltshire and Stephen talk about on the show:

• Stephen's trajectory into the marketing and advertising industry (3:15) to become CEO of FUSE Create
• What the pandemic has taught Stephen about over communicating (7:43) and the importance of a positive workplace culture (10:08). As well as why you need to provide a path for your team to connect, engage and build, instead of just focusing on financials (10:08)
• Whether brands need agencies – and finding the right balance (12:11). Plus, some insights on why outsourcing to an independent agency can help keep the product and connection with the consumer honest (13:58)
• If creativity can be quantified (15:00) and whether it should become all-encompassing
• The key to effective leadership – showing up and being present as well as listening to find the true issue instead of rushing to fix the problem (17:42)
• What's important for an emerging marketer, from building a personal brand and forming relationships through networking to letting your personality shine, being curious and passionate (22:22) and the ability to see opportunity (22:34).

To find out more about the role of agencies in today's marketing landscape, 🎧 tune in to CMA Connect🎧.

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