Earlier this month, Omnicom announced a major restructuring following its acquisition of Interpublic to create the largest agency group in the world.
The acquisition was completed on November 26 following approval of EU regulations. A major restructure is currently underway, with new leadership teams being installed across the network and a number of agency brands disappearing entirely. As a result of the changes, there will be an additional 4,000 redundancies on top of the current cuts.
The company will operate three global creative agency networks, BBDO, TBWA and McCann, with IPG creative shops including FCB London and MullenLowe UK merging to form AMV BBDO. Omnicom Media will also operate six global media agency networks: OMD, PHD, Hearts & Science, Initiative, UM and Mediahub.
The restructured group’s total headcount will be approximately 105,000, up from 128,000 at Omnicom and IPG at the end of 2024.
A current episode of The campaign podcast also asked, “Will the new Omnicom work?” The Campaign editorial team discussed what the new holding company will look like and what that means for the remaining agencies.
With so much uncertainty in the air and the words “cuts”, “layoffs” and “restructuring” often in the headlines, we asked Adlanders what advice they would give to people experiencing job insecurity.
Rachel Forde
Founder, TheZoo.London
During times of uncertainty in the industry, whether due to structural changes such as Omnicom, IPG or the broader market, my advice is simple: focus on what you can control. It’s easy to get caught up in speculation and office politics, but none of it will advance your career.
What makes the difference is that you do the best job possible given the responsibilities in front of you today. Strong performance and consistent results are the most reliable ways to create stability in an unstable environment.
And when the worst happens, remember that adversity can bring unexpected opportunities. Losing a position is undeniably stressful, but it can also be a catalyst for rethinking your direction, discovering new strengths, and making changes you might not have had the courage to make otherwise. Stay present, stay grounded and trust that you will find your way through the crisis.
Adele Lewis Bridgeman
Talent Acquisition Consultant
Let’s say it out loud: When you use the word “restructuring” these days, it basically means “layoff.”
My advice goes out to anyone who has experienced job insecurity first-hand, and to some extent to anyone in the market, as job insecurity and anxiety are at an all-time high. It says: Lean into the connection.
It can be difficult to fully engage with the community when navigating change. So prioritize connecting with one person instead. A confidant who you can share your concerns with and who will listen to you throughout the process. Someone who will be respectful and leave space for you whilst pointing you towards practical, helpful resources such as Nabs, Acas or an external employment law specialist who will be best placed to review your contract and help you understand your options. Finally, this person needs to be your cheerleader, willing to work with you to create an action plan that will help you secure your next role when you are ready.
Charlie Rudd
Managing Director, Creative Practice at Publicis Groupe UK
This has certainly never been an industry for the faint of heart. The volatility of agencies and their revenues is very well documented and I suspect that this publication wouldn’t have quite as many readers if it were different.
But I am aware that there is currently a clash of forces that is posing challenges to the authorities and their structures like never before. And it is worrying to see very talented people having to find new roles and places to work.
The first piece of advice I would give people is to remember that the challenges in the industry are not their fault. You didn’t do anything wrong. Often it is simply a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. You’re just as good as you were six months ago. Accept it, but don’t think that you and this industry aren’t compatible.
This leads to my second suggestion. Take this opportunity to really figure out what you enjoy and what you would like to do more and less of in a new role. We tend to spend too little time thinking about career development when we’re working at full speed. Use this time to focus on what you want. And I mean really focus and be sure.
And finally, work on your network. This is still a people business and you have worked with hundreds of people. The vast majority of them are decent and want to help. Harass people and harass them. This volatility works both ways and new roles suddenly appear; You have to make sure you are in the right place at the right time this time.
Lorraine Jennings Creed
Director of Health Services and Culture Change, Nabs
Job insecurity affects three things at once: your stability, your identity, and your sense of control. Anxiety increases when it all feels shaky, and then a little more when we think we “should” be handling it better than we are.
The industry is changing rapidly and that can leave you feeling threatened. Fear and worry can creep in, and telling yourself (or being told) not to feel that way doesn’t work. When worry becomes overwhelming, it helps to find small ways to cope.
Some of the little routines can help you stay stable. When panic actually hits—thought spirals, chest tightness, waking up at 4 a.m.—you can’t always find a way out. What helps is something small: breathe in to the count of four, breathe out to the count of six, write things down, a manageable task. Anything that puts some of that panic into action.
Resilience has had a bad reputation in the past – and rightly so when training or messages about it have been misused – but resilience is also collective. Resilience can come from connection, from the people who show up when things are difficult. So it’s about leaning on people, being honest about what you’re dealing with, staying in touch with the few people who actually get it, and building inner strength through that.
The Nabs advice line is here for anyone affected by the changes. Please call us on 0800 707 6607 or email support@nabs.org.uk
Natalie Napier
Managing Partner and Owner, Grace Blue Europe
Job insecurity is deeply troubling, especially at this time of year, and I have deep compassion for everyone affected by it.
My most urgent advice, regardless of the circumstances, is to take control of the situation as much as possible and take the lead early. Be proactive and lean on your network in an open and authentic way. Think carefully about the people who have supported or advocated for you throughout your career and speak to them early on to get their opinion and advice. In informal conversations like these, opportunities often appear long before they become visible. And of course, hire trusted HR consultants as part of your larger network.
To make these conversations meaningful, be clear about what you do really well, the problems you solve, and the impact you’ve made. This means crafting a story about your career that goes far beyond a list of your previous jobs. Finally, be curious about where customers are investing and think about how your capabilities align with future growth areas, because that’s where opportunities arise.
Jon Peppiatt
Trustee, Nabs
Non-Executive Chairman, The BluePrint
My condolences go out to anyone who finds themselves in this situation, especially at this time of year when it just seems more acute and stressful.
- Talk to someone – colleague, boss, partner, friend, family member – let them know how you feel, don’t leave it alone.
- Unfortunately, in the current climate, many people will feel unsafe. Don’t jump to conclusions because it may well not affect you.
- Try to focus on what you can control. No matter how difficult it may be, focus on the here and now and do your best every day.
- Take a look at your resume and quietly reach out to your network or a recruiter to explore opportunities.
Finally, if you find yourself in a layoff/restructuring process, make sure you fully understand the process. If your business doesn’t provide enough clarity, contact Nabs for advice.
