The Alliance of Independent Agencies, the UK industry body formed from the collapsed Marketing Agencies Association (MMA), has extended and strengthened its leadership team with the promotion of Terry Martin to managing director and the appointment of Helen Anderson as executive director.
The group was founded in 2018 by Clive Mishon and Graham Kemp – two former chairmen of the MAA – to represent independent marketing and communications agencies.
Mishon and Kemp will now step into the roles of co-chair and continue to lead the Board and Advisory Board for the organisation.
Anderson joins the Alliance from Thenetworkone, where she was managing director, and has a career spanning 25 years at the top tiers of membership organisations.
She is a recognised expert in marketing, PR, communications, and leadership within the sector and has served in a variety of top leadership roles and as a trustee on several high-profile membership boards. Her experience and vision will be instrumental in shaping the future of the Alliance.
Martin has been an integral part of the Alliance since 2019 over which time he has developed a deep understanding of both the sector and the Alliance’s mission and objectives and having successfully led the operations for the Alliance now steps up to the role of managing director.
Sarah Byrne, who leads agency partnerships at Google, said: “Helen’s appointment is a game changer for independent agencies in the UK.
“Her wealth of global experience both client side and within respected membership bodies, combined with Terry’s deep understanding the independent sector will provide unparalleled leadership at a critical time for the industry.
“The strengthening of the Alliance’s management team will further empower agile and innovative independent agencies to push boundaries, stay ahead of trends, be a combine voice and continue to drive meaningful impact.”
Kemp and Mishon commented: “Over the last five years the Alliance has grown and expanded its field of influence which has reflected the growth and influence of the whole independent agency community.
“So, as we entered 2025, with the launch of the Alliance of Media Independents and transition of Agencynomics into our community, we are now the home for over 1,800 independents in the UK.
“Therefore, it was the right time to invest, expand and strengthen the leadership team of the Alliance and in doing so we have been fortunate in attracting someone of Helen’s experience and calibre whilst recognising the tremendous contribution that Terry has made to the organisation.
“This is a testament to our commitment to providing world-class guidance and support to the independent agency community.”
Related stories
Independent agencies’ group relaunches and rebrands
Marketing body unveils line-up for mental health event
Marketing body unveils award to honour Mike Spicer
Body formed from defunct MAA strikes deal with PRCA
Former MAA chiefs sign assets deal for new trade body
