Agency careers are evolving fast, creating new opportunities for media professionals, commercial teams and anyone looking to build a successful career in media.

Episode Overview:

From global holding groups and specialist independents to social, Amazon and experiential agencies, the agency landscape has never been broader. At the same time, AI, automation and changing client expectations are reshaping how agencies operate, the skills they value and the career paths available to ambitious media professionals.

In this episode of It’s A Yes! Making It In Media, Debra Sharron and Jo Wood are joined by Lisa Morgan, Managing Director at Generation Media, and Sarah Chappell, Commercial Director at Guerrillascope.

Together, they explore what agency life is really like, how the sector is evolving, the opportunities available across different agency types, and the commercial, strategic and storytelling skills that are becoming increasingly important for career success.

What This Episode Covers:

• The different types of media agencies and how the sector has evolved
• The differences between working at a holding company and an independent agency
• How agencies win new business and what makes a successful pitch
• Why commercial thinking and storytelling are becoming essential career skills
• The impact of AI, automation and changing client expectations
• The opportunities available for entry-level talent and future media leaders
• How agency-client relationships are evolving towards more strategic partnerships
• The skills and attributes agency leaders look for when hiring and developing talent

YES List

Influence - Robert Cialdini

Debra and Jo recommend this classic book on persuasion, decision-making and influence for anyone working in media sales, agencies, client services or commercial leadership.

Drawing on decades of behavioural science research, Cialdini explores the psychological principles that shape how people make decisions, build trust and respond to ideas. From client presentations and negotiations to pitching and stakeholder management, the lessons remain highly relevant for today’s media professionals.

Top takeout: People are influenced by more than logic alone. Understanding the principles behind trust, credibility and decision-making can help you communicate more effectively, build stronger relationships and gain greater buy-in for your ideas.

Purchase here

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The views shared on this podcast are for general information only and reflect personal experience. They should not be taken as specific career, legal or financial advice.