Meet the Media Masters: B&T's Top Media Strategists Revealed!

In this week’s B&T’s Best of the Best, we spotlight the industry’s most brilliant media strategists from media agencies. These are the thinkers you want in the room when crafting winning media ideas and your allies in pitch contests.

This list features strategists who are actively involved in daily operations, meaning some seasoned leaders like WPP’s Katie Rigg-Smith and Wavemaker’s James Hier are not included. Others narrowly missed the cut, such as Zenith’s Penny Shell and PHD’s David Bielenberg, highlighting the depth of talent in the industry.

10. Asier Carazo, Chief Strategy Officer, Atomic 212

Carazo has been instrumental in transforming Atomic 212 from a performance media shop to a strategic powerhouse. He introduced Atomic Fusion, a fresh planning process, and the Sonar research product, showcasing his innovative approach.

9. Mitchell Long, Chief Strategy Officer, Havas

Recognized for his consumer insights, Long has made a significant impact in the industry. His strategic foresight helped secure new clients, including Tourism Fiji, emphasizing his value to Havas.

8. Lisa Leach, Head of Strategy, OMD Sydney

With 28 years of experience, Leach excels in forming close client partnerships and has led OMD to multiple award-winning campaigns, including a Cannes Media Lion.

7. Gavin Gibson, Chief Product Officer, Mindshare

Gibson is known for driving long-term brand growth through data-driven media solutions. His leadership has attracted major clients like Unilever and Nestle.

6. Caroline Hugall, Chief Strategy Officer, Spark Foundry

With a diverse background in both agency and client-side roles, Hugall has been pivotal in achieving strong commercial outcomes for brands, advocating for women in media.

5. Catherine Rushton, Chief Strategy Officer, This is Flow

Known as 'Crush', Rushton leads strategy at This is Flow, fostering a culture of excellence and leading renowned accounts like Unilever.

4. Raj Gupta, Chief Strategy Officer, UM

A former lawyer, Gupta is lauded for his sharp media strategies and mentorship within the industry, contributing significantly to UM’s success.

3. Sophie Price & Matt Scotton, Chief Strategy Officer & Chief Product Officer, EssenceMediacom

This dynamic duo has been crucial in driving EssenceMediacom to win the B&T Awards Media Agency of the Year, known for their innovative communication strategies.

2. Alex Pacey, Chief Product Officer, OMG

Pacey, a multi-award-winning planner, has transformed OMG’s strategy and planning functions, earning recognition across various categories.

1. Chris Colter, Managing Director, Media Strategy, Accenture Song

Colter is hailed as one of the top strategists globally, known for his exceptional speed and strategic thinking, consistently delivering groundbreaking ideas.

Stay tuned for more insights as we continue to celebrate the best in the industry!