We’re interested to see how far we’ve come in terms of diversity levels across agencies in the marketing industry since our last survey in 2021. This time around, the survey will serve to clarify where we currently stand and whether progress has been made – we want to know if last year’s benchmarks have been reached and which issues are in desperate need of tackling so we can set fresh goals to aim towards.
Kiorhte Aghoghogbe, Account Manager and Hallam’s Diversity & Inclusion Lead, explains: “I’m really excited to be working again with The Agency Collective on the diversity, equity and inclusion survey. Last year was a success but it was only the start of the journey. We gained so many valuable insights and data about the industry, while learning so much throughout the process and ways to make the survey even better this year!
“Seeing so many people and agencies take part last year was phenomenal. We got tons of feedback on their thoughts surrounding the survey, but also received constructive feedback, which we’ve taken on board. The report was an eye opener and was beneficial in shaping diversity, equity and inclusion within Hallam – we’ve seen new people join the company from different backgrounds, cultures and ethnicity.
“We’ll continue to ask the same questions about demographics and representation to benchmark the industry so we can see what progress – or lack there-of – is being made. However, this year we’ve got some new open-ended and thought-provoking questions which hopefully will uncover new facts and success stories of DEI matters, from agencies we hope to share in the report.
“We hope to get even more respondents and we welcome people’s participation in the survey. Your thoughts and opinions really matter and will help us drive the change we want to make!”

Take the anonymous survey here

Diversity and inclusion will only better the industry by bringing in different insights and approaches to marketing. We have to continue asking questions, setting benchmarks, and holding open discussions in order to see change.
Ellie Hale, Managing Director of The Agency Collective, said: “With the recession looming, there is evidence to suggest that agencies will start making budget cuts. Those agencies who had planned to increase their DE&I efforts may be faced with a difficult decision, when trying to balance the training needs of their agency. We felt even more strongly that we needed to get a sense of where our industry is. What have they been doing in 2022, and what is the plan for 2023? We need to be making greater efforts to increase diversity of thought in our agencies, to lessen the pay gaps and to ensure our agencies are inclusive. How else can we best serve our clients?
“This survey is important, the data will be useful and I am really looking forward to being able to release the report with some valuable stories and advice from agencies of all sizes, from all over the country.”
We know change will not come instantaneously, but we’re hoping by starting somewhere it can help people and agencies to become more aware of diversity within their company, and what they can do to take the first step.
If you work for a UK-based agency, would you please give a few moments of your time to take part?

Take the anonymous survey here