The Convergence of Hollywood and Madison Avenue: A New Era in Advertising

The Many | Aug. 14 2023

Madison Avenue has welcomed an influx of A-list celebrities, each establishing their niche in the realm of advertising. But why is Hollywood’s elite venturing into this territory?
 
Scott Bradfield, Managing Director of The Many Studios, offers a perspective that’s both insightful and telling. “Celebrities are carving out a niche within the agency and production realm by capitalizing on their extensive networks and unique personal intellectual property to scale these nascent businesses swiftly and effectively,” he says.
 
The Many Studios, reflecting this trend, is a testament to the blurred lines between the entertainment and advertising sectors. As more celebrities make their way into the ad world, offering cultural insights and fresh perspectives, the industry stands at the cusp of a transformative phase. Celebrity-owned agencies promise a fresh infusion of creativity, blending Hollywood’s storytelling charm with Madison Avenue’s strategic prowess.
 
From Idris Elba’s recent venture, SillyFace, to Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, and Tony Hawk’s D/CAL, the symbiotic relationship between celebrities and advertising is poised to create waves of innovation. With this intriguing amalgamation, The Many remains dedicated to understanding and embracing the evolving dynamics of the advertising landscape.
 
Stay tuned to our page for more updates and in-depth insights into the world where Hollywood meets Madison Avenue.

The Many: Challenging the Status Quo and Making Waves in the Marketing World

The Many | Jul. 27 2023

Creating work that sets world records, wins prestigious awards, and significantly moves the needle for clients is no small feat. Yet, that’s precisely what The Many excels in. With a disruptive spirit and a knack for partnering with some of the world’s biggest brands and culture-shifters, The Many consistently delivers high-level impacts.
 
This “indie” integrated agency has left a distinct mark in creativity. Through unique partnerships, brands like Panda Express, eBay and Netflix have been able to expand their horizons and exceed their expectations.
 
For a deeper dive into what sets The Many apart, check out the full feature here. Get insights straight from managing directors Maggie Cadigan and Davis Jones, as they share their perspectives on The Many’s distinctive approach and commitment to challenging the comfortable.

Insights from Cynopsis 8th Annual Measurement & Data Conference

The Many | Jul. 21 2023

Our very own Crystal Chou and Brittany Goode attended this year’s Cynopsis Measurement & Data Conference, a cornerstone event of the media and digital industries. Known for its focus on the critical topics in data and measurement, this conference offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in our rapidly changing media landscape.


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Measuring multicultural groups, younger demographics, and various devices and channels presents significant challenges. Achieving accurate measurement while incorporating AI and machine learning into data infrastructures are ongoing concerns. There is a gap in baseline knowledge about measurement practices throughout the industry, and there is a need to measure across platforms and engage audiences effectively.


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Advertisers are seeking partners with strong measurement capabilities including cross-platform measurement, targeting opportunities and access to on-platform advertising KPIs. The industry is grappling with the need for flexibility in a multi-currency world, where advertisers test multiple currencies. There isn’t one partner that can solve for this. The more ways we can work together, the better we can establish synergy, accountability and solutions.


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True cross-media measurement is crucial, as it provides incremental value to media plans and enhances consumer experiences while protecting data. Fragmentation, consistency, and convergence are key issues in cross-media measurement, especially in the context of streaming and measuring multicultural audiences. The establishment of alliances, such as the Independent Streaming Alliance (ISA) and Joint Industry Committee (JIC), aim to address fragmentation and create cohesion in the CTV environment.


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Big data, first-party data and panel data play significant roles in understanding the consumer journey. Each data source has its respective strength and we need to balance usage to optimally reach audiences. Privacy considerations and the development of methodologies for building compliant audiences are essential. Clean rooms have emerged as solution to ensure privacy compliance while aggregating different data sets for management and analysis. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help solve measurement challenges, but it should be used effectively and in conjunction with human expertise.


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Reaching the right audiences at scale is a top priority in the industry. However, not all reach is created equal and attention metrics should be considered to ensure impactful advertising. Attention is reframed as a more human-centered metric, focusing on whether an ad was truly seen and if it aligns with campaign objectives. Brands should aim to deliver personalized and contextually aligned ad experiences to maximize attention and engage with viewers. Tl;dr attention is not a fad, it’s here to stay.


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Brand is the intangible reason a consumer chooses you over others within the competitive set. While there has been a strong focus on lower-funnel efforts (i.e. performance), this is a highly commoditized space prioritizing functional metrics versus actually building a long-term connection with audiences who will come back. Brand and performance treated as independent tactics creates a false dichotomy. It is crucial to find the right balance between these tactics, creating a holistic approach that ladders into a unified framework. Ultimately, brand is an investment that increases the effectiveness of performance.


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The industry needs cross-screen solutions, transparency, standards and ideation to advance measurement practices. Experimentation is vital, but standardization can sometimes slow down progress. Collaboration and an experimental mindset are necessary for driving change and innovation in the industry. Leveraging existing data, focusing on creativity and considering privacy are key components in moving measurement forward.


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These insights are informative and crucial in shaping our strategies during constant change. We’re excited to implement these learnings and continue delivering innovative and measurable results for our clients. Stay tuned for more insights from Crystal, Brittany, and the rest of our team here at The Many as we continue to navigate and lead in the dynamic world of data and measurement.


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Introducing The Many Studios - A New Era in Creative Magic

The Many | Apr. 28 2023

Hold on to your hats! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of The Many Studios, our new content studio geared up to generate some spellbinding creative wonder.
 
At the helm is Scott Bradfield, an Emmy Award-winning tour de force in production and development. Scott brings his 16 years of expertise from Red Bull Media House, and if you’re wondering where you’ve heard his name before, it’s because he was the mastermind behind the riveting 2012 live Red Bull Stratos broadcast – the most-watched live stream on YouTube.
 
But wait, there’s more! We’re also welcoming two industry powerhouses to the team: Adam McGinnes, our new Executive Producer, and Ayanna Hart, Director of Studio Operations. With a history of creating memorable content and managing complex operations, they’re ready to set the bar even higher in content creation.
 
So strap in and get ready for a thrilling journey. The Many Studios is on the scene, and we’re prepared to push the boundaries of creative content.
 
For more details, check out the links below: 
SHOOT Online
LBBOnline
 
Stay tuned for exciting updates and mind-blowing content from The Many Studios. This is just the beginning!
 

The Many Welcomes Victor M. Parker II as Director of Communications and Marketing

THE MANY | May. 31 2023

We’re raising the roof at The Many today! That’s because we’ve welcomed a new superstar to the team: Victor M. Parker II, stepping into the Director of Communications and Marketing role. With an eye for narrative and a flair for building relationships, Victor is ready to champion our communications and marketing strategies.
 
Victor is familiar with the communications rodeo. He’s crafted communication strategies at Fika Media Company and managed publicity initiatives at Warner Bros. Entertainment. He’s ready to bring his unique blend of creativity, professionalism, and curiosity to The Many.
 
But wait, there’s more. Victor will not just be flexing his marketing muscles at The Many; he will also be leading the charge for The Many Studios, our newly launched content studio.
 
“Victor is the whole package,” said Christian Jacobsen, CEO of The Many. “He’s got an uncanny knack for uncovering the story in the story, and we’re thrilled to have him on board.”
 
Echoing this, Maggie Cadigan, Managing Director of Growth, added, “Victor’s expertise and leadership will be pivotal in telling The Many’s story as we move forward. We can’t wait to see the waves he’ll make in our brand’s narrative and growth.”
 
Welcome aboard, Victor! From Intel to Microsoft and Xbox, Victor’s portfolio spans impressive brands, and we’re looking forward to adding The Many to his list of successes. Stay tuned for some amazing things coming from this powerhouse.
 
For more information, check out the link here.
 
Stay tuned for exciting updates and stellar work from Victor and The Many team. Onwards and upwards!

Josh Paialii Ascends to Head of Creative at The Many

The Many | May. 31 2023

We’re thrilled to announce a significant shift in our creative landscape – promoting the phenomenal Josh Paialii to Head of Creative. Paialii will continue to inspire and guide our creative department as he steps into this role, contributing his distinct vision and skill to the recently launched The Many Studios.
 
With a career spanning over 15 years, Paialii has been instrumental in driving award-winning campaigns across various categories. His collaborative approach and commitment to groundbreaking work have significantly benefited brands like Panda Express, Netflix, Nestlé, Riot Games, 2K Games, Ubisoft, and Lexus.
 
Our CEO, Christian Jacobsen, praises Paialii’s unique qualities: “Josh is not only an inspirational creative talent but an exceptional leader. His positivity and proactive, creative thinking have significantly impacted our work, and we’re excited to see how his influence shapes our future.”
 
Paialii’s passion for authentic creativity is evident. He enjoys working with clients who prioritize their personalities and values. He’s also invested in strengthening our agency’s relationships with local high schools, aiming to inspire the next generation of creators and bridge the industry’s diversity gap.
 
Excited about his new role, Paialii said, “I look forward to bringing our unique creative approach to new media channels and formats while continuing to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within the industry.” 
 
As Head of Creative, Paialii will continue to be a driving force behind The Many’s success, propelling us toward greater heights in the industry. Check out more on his promotion at Ad Age.

AAPI @ The Many Presents: A Heated Discussion

The Many | May. 31 2023

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the culture, traditions, and history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
 
In celebration, AAPI @ The Many debuted a new panel format called “A Heated Discussion.” This dialogue was inspired by Complex’s “Hot Ones” with an AAPI twist. John Duch, senior designer and one of the AAPI co-leads, moderated a panel discussion centered around themes of navigating the world under the lens of identifying as AAPI. The twist of the panel’s format was that panelists answered questions while also sampling various hot sauces bought from locally owned AAPI businesses. 
 
Panelists of the event were comprised of Ellen Acuario, Chloe Shih, Bernice Chao, and Josh Paialii. Ellen is a stand up comedian who’s built a massive platform on TikTok. Chloe is a social content creator and is currently a product manager at Discord. Bernice is the co-founder of the non profit, Asians in Advertising and the co-author of “The Visibility Mindset.” Last but not least is The Many’s very own Head of Creative, Josh Paialii.


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eBay Sneakers and The Many Celebrate the Contributions of Black Icons By Honoring The Footprint

The Many | Feb. 10 2023

To kick off Black History Month this year, eBay Sneakers launched, “The Footprint,” a campaign highlighting sneakers, artifacts, and talent that pay homage to the timeless impact of Black culture on sneaker culture across the generations. 
 
“The Footprint” weaves through four narrative chapters representing the different eras of Black impact on the sneaker game –  Building Blocks (the 70s), Breakthrough (80s-90s), The Takeover (2000-present), Tomorrow (2022 and beyond) – all chapters feature sneakers and talent stories representative of the era. From Dapper Dan, D’Wayne Edwards, Aleali May, Frank Cooke, and sneakers spanning from Puma Clyde’s signed by Walt Frazier, New Balance 740 Worthy signed by James Worthy to the Aleali May Air Jordan 1 “Satin Shadow” and many more!


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The talent stories highlight some of the biggest sneaker trends that emerged from Black influence and how these pioneers helped shape the sneaker culture we see today. In addition to talent stories, we’ve worked together to create a social/digital museum that takes our audience through each sneaker featured’s historical significance in the sneaker game.


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As a way to inspire the next generation of Black designers, each museum sneaker featured will be auctioned off where all proceeds will benefit Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design, the first HBCU dedicated to footwear design. Founded by D’Wayne Edwards, Pensole provides pathways into shoe design for underrepresented youth and creates a pipeline for talented designers of color in the sneaker industry. eBay’s commitment and donation will help uplift the next generation of Black sneaker icons helping to alleviate the barriers that Black sneakerheads face providing them with economic relief while at school.


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“The Footprint” launched February 2 and concludes February 28, and we’re excited to potentially extend this into additional activations throughout the year as eBay continues to support the immeasurable impact of the Black community on the sneaker game. 
 
#eBayBHMFootprint


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Panda Express and The Many celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with good fortune for all

The Many | Jan. 17 2023

In just over a month-long celebration of Lunar New Year, Panda Express is offering the internet good fortune in the form of free menu items (lucky dishes!), $8 discounts on Panda Family Meals, and restaurant gift cards ranging from $88 to $888 (the luckiest number of all). All guests have to do is try their luck with the Good Fortune Scratcher! 
 
Developed by The Many and development partner dotdotdash, the Lunar New Year Good Fortune Scratcher is a web-based, lotto-inspired scratcher game that not only offers instant prizes for all who plays, but also educates players around the many traditions and icons of Lunar New Year. With over 2,000 stores nationwide, Panda Express believes in the power of bridging both Eastern and Western cultures, and helping those uninitiated with the holiday learn about some of its traditions and customs; all the while encouraging everyone to come together around the dining table with those we love — a tradition we can all connect with.
 
In addition to the Good Fortune Scratcher game, The Many developed over 40 unique static and animated content pieces for IG and TikTok that not only encourage guests to play the game, but truly make coming together around Panda Family Meal an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed during this time of year.  
 
In the two years prior, The Many and Panda Express have collaborated together to create Traditions Shared, a brand film that told the story of a young boy being invited to his neighbor’s Lunar New Year celebration, creating a lifelong memory and connection between the two, as well as The Good Fortune Arcade — a nostalgia-inspired, 8-bit video game where you can earn restaurant discounts by collecting lucky dishes stolen by the holiday’s fabled mythical antagonist — Nian. 
 
Though each year brings new themes and cultural insights, what remains consistent in the work is the opportunity to make Lunar New Year a holiday that is resonant, approachable, and inspiring for all. “Nothing says Lunar New Year like a delicious meal filled with family, traditions, good food and good fortune,” said Jacque Vavroch, associate creative director at The Many. “And nothing says good fortune like a good ol’ fashioned scratcher — so we were thrilled to bring all these elements together in one celebratory, gamified experience.”
 
In just three weeks, the Good Fortune Scratcher has surpassed all benchmarks, with roughly 1.2M unique visitors and counting having played the game, and over a 100,000 redemption codes for lucky dishes and family meals having already been redeemed. 
 
You can visit PandaLNY.com and try your luck today! 
You can see additional coverage of the Good Fortune Scratcher featured in Adweek, Thrillist, Little Black Book, Trendhunter, Yahoo, Chewboom and BrandEating.


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Expanding our People Team with a Focus on Inclusion and Culture

Blake Marquis | Mar. 28 2022

Announcing the expansion of our People Department with the hires of Courtney Burns, Executive Director of Talent and Culture, Jill Savage, Director of Resource Management, and Ash Ramirez, DE&I Lead. The three new hires join our People Department, which grew from one person in 2020 to now a total of nine across DE&I, talent, recruiting, leadership and development, resourcing and human resources. 
 
In addition to Burns, Savage and Ramirez, The Many’s People department has expanded throughout the last year including the hires of Johanna Penry, People Experience Manager, Serena Hutton, Recruiting Lead, Sharon Gi, Senior Resource Manager, Maya Morris, Talent and Culture Coordinator, and Samuel Reyes, People Operations Coordinator. Tim Cyrol continues in his role as Human Resources Director since 2015, with Davis Jones leading the department as Managing Director, People.
 
The three new hires solidify our commitment to some of the industry’s most pressing challenges—diversity and talent acquisition and management—with a focus on building internal systems and programming that rally the entire agency to work together and find productive and impactful solutions. 
 
“We have a high performance culture at The Many, and to achieve our ambitions collectively, we are focused on unlocking the potential of each individual and team at the agency—it’s a growth mindset that succeeds here, which means we often operate outside or at the edge of our comfort zones,” said Davis Jones, Managing Director, People. “The role of this team is to ensure we are building through conscious and intentional recruitment strategies, fostering talent through learning and development opportunities, and providing the tools and flexibility to thrive in the changing work, business and cultural climate. We strive to be a force for progress and to achieve that, it takes each and every one of us.”
 
Burns joins The Many from Huge where she served as VP, Global Recruiting. At The Many, Burns will further build the agency’s go-to market strategies and recruiting processes as well as oversee the agency’s growing DE&I programming. This includes a concerted effort to hire and retain diverse talent and develop Recruiting as a strategic practice at the agency to proactively help stabilize the industry-wide issue of burnout. 
 
Courtney Burns: “Building an inclusive culture begins with looking at the current makeup of our teams to intentionally address diversity and gender gaps during the recruiting process, ensuring candidates have a best in class interview experience and can see growth potential for themselves at The Many. At The Many, we’re committed to changing our go-to-market strategies, building equitable pipelines, evaluating both potential and experience, and being transparent about our numbers and the areas we need to improve.”
 
Previously Director, Resource Management, at Saatchi & Saatchi, Savage will develop the agency’s resource management practice by taking a qualitative and quantitative look at staffing to not only build efficiencies, but also identify learning and development opportunities across departments based on a mix of talent management and staffing, and clear financial planning for both the agency and its employees by creating clear pathways to success. 
 
Jill Savage: “I came to The Many to seize the opportunity to install a human-based approach to Resource Management. It’s not just excel documents with numbers, there’s the human (qualitative) aspect of resourcing that can get missed if you don’t work deliberately with the people in mind. It’s exciting to be somewhere that this piece matters.”
 
A graduate of MAIP and MPMS, Ramirez brings a breadth of forward-thinking DE&I experience from Wieden + Kennedy, Droga5, Digitas Health, and Condé Nast. In addition to creating programming that celebrates all diverse identities and empowers individuals to be at their best, they are spearheading the launch of The Many’s Employee Resource Groups and supporting the agency’s efforts to move the entire industry towards greater inclusivity and representation both in the workplace and in the output of the work. 
 
Ash Ramirez: “I came to The Many not only because I saw potential, I saw the commitment and the willingness to get uncomfortable. Diversity work is an ongoing industry problem and one that cannot be remedied overnight. It takes everyone, and I mean everyone across levels and departments to create a truly inclusive culture. When it comes to this work I was looking for a partner that heard and supported the efforts I would bring to the agency. I am proud of our efforts so far and it’s only just the beginning. I very much see The Many becoming the standard within the ad industry when it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion.”
 
We are excited and grateful for the role that each of these people play in supporting our success. This won’t be the last you hear!
 
Also, catch the news on Campaign, Ad Age, and Adweek.

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