I spent an amazing 10 years helping grow Search Laboratory into one of the UK’s largest independent digital agencies, and ultimately leading the company to its acquisition by Havas Media Network in 2022 during my time as CEO.

It was an incredible journey that involved multiple periods of high growth, successfully expanding into the US market, continually evolving our proposition and capabilities, securing top-tier partner status with vendors like Google and Meta, becoming an award-winning employer, hiring and developing some amazing people and achieving B Corp status… and overcoming more than a few challenges along the way.

Post-acquisition, 3 years working as part the Havas Media leadership team gave me a fresh perspective on agencyland through the eyes of a network agency, and taught me a lot about the workings and processes of a large complex media business.

Before moving into agency leadership I spent 15 years working in commercial roles covering lead generation, marketing, new business sales and client services. I’ve implemeted sales and marketing strategies in the UK and globally that have delivered millions of pounds of revenue growth. This will sound obvious, but it’s really hard to grow your agency without retaining (and growing) your existing clients and winning new business. I’ve been there and done it, and love to share what I’ve learned to help other businesses grow.

My experience has taught me that there’s a lot about running a successful agency that is quite straightforward, but if you’re experiencing it for the first time it can seem far from it. Whatever the issue you’re facing or goal you want to achieve, it’s highly likely that I’ve seen it before and can provide valuable advice and a fresh perspective.

I look forward to helping you realise the full potential of your agency.

Chris Attewell

chris@realiseadvisory.com