Mediaweek HOT List October 2022: Celebrating agencies at the top of their game

The Mediaweek Hot List monthly feature is compiled by Mediaweek contributing editor Greg Graham. This is the sixth Hot List after launching in May 2022.

Regular readers might notice several of the agencies on the Hot List have made multiple appearances this year – when you’re hot you’re hot…

Mediaweek Hot List: Sizzling HOT

Media agency: Initiative

A continuing powerhouse run with super impressive award success and making the magic happen. The excellent strategy team also delivers cultural velocity and outstanding work for blue chip clients such as IAG, Amazon, Lego, Bunnings, Pernod Ricard, etc.

Initiative Australia's Chris Colter and Sam Geer (pictured) took the stage and opened the Media Federation of Australia EX (Melbourne) recently. Their interactive presentation engaged audience members to see how much unconscious bias exists within the industry. The results were then examined live on stage for all to see.

Creative Agency: The Monkeys

A creative force that just delivers day in and day out. Adding to the outstanding work for existing clients I really like the History is Calling work for The Uluru Statement. Plus, they create provocative ideas for some of Australia’s most respected clients including Telstra, Australian Post, MLA, BCF and Supercheap Auto.

Earlier this year at the 43rd Annual AWARD awards The Monkeys were recognised as Individual Agency of the Year.

Mediaweek Hot List: HOTTEST

Media Agency: Spark Foundry

They have been simmering for a while with excellent leadership in Imogen Hewitt and famously effective work for some hot clients such as Toyota, Westpac, Arnott’s, Peters, Hello Fresh, etc. One to watch within the Publicis Media Groupe.

Creative Agency: The Special Group

Once again, they are Special and continue to produce outstanding work both here and in New Zealand. Also recently awarded global Grand Effies as the most effective independent agency. The recent work for Kathmandu out of New Zealand is very out there and adventurous plus the local Kayo summer cricket campaign is fun and memorable.

Mediaweek Hot List: HOT

Media Agency: Atomic 212

This hot indie has been successful from Melbourne and Sydney to Darwin and has some hot clients such as Bupa, BMW, BHP, Origin, etc. Recent great new work for Freedom Kitchens plus some impressive wins that are yet to be announced.

Some of the Atomic 212 team with founder and chairman Barry O'Brien bottom right

Creative Agency: Ogilvy

One of my favourite creative agencies with an outstanding heritage that still inspires brands and people to impact the world. That could be for AAMI, Cadbury, Nestle, Huggies or KFC. Excellent leadership with Sally Kissane and their work sweeps the Effies both locally, regionally, and globally.

See also:
Who made the Mediaweek Hot List in May, June, July and August?

Doing some good work and kicking goals? We are happy to hear from you – send details to sparrow@mediaweek.com.au.

Criteria for making the Mediaweek Hot Lists
• New business success
• Current client retention
• Momentum
• Industry acclaim and buzz