From Layoff to Launch: My Journey from Y&R Miami to Samba Rock
In 2015, I faced a turning point in my career that many might consider a setback but turned out to be a catalyst for a new beginning. After a fruitful tenure at Y&R Miami (Young and Rubicam, coming from a recent merge with Wunderman Thompson and Bravo), a leading advertising agency and part of the largest communications services group, WPP Group, my journey took an unexpected turn. This is how a layoff became an opportunity to build Samba Rock Marketing Consulting and start achieving my dream of making advertising history.
The Y&R Chapter
At Y&R Miami, I was a Creative Director, leading digital, social media, and art direction for major accounts like AT&T and Bauducco. My role involved developing marketing strategies that resonated with diverse audiences, particularly targeting the Hispanic market. It was an incredible experience to be part of an advertising agency with such a rich history, founded by Raymond Rubicam, and known for its innovative marketing strategies and impactful advertising services.
Y&R Advertising, now part of VML, under the umbrella of WPP Group, is recognized as one of the advertising giants. With an impressive client list, including the likes of AT&T, Coca-Cola, and Pepsico, Y&R's influence in the advertising industry is undeniable. This multinational advertising division, with its principal offices located in Columbus Circle, has a legacy that continues to shape the landscape of advertising and marketing today.
The Unexpected Turn
In early 2015, Y&R underwent significant restructuring like many multinational advertising divisions under the WPP Group, after losing their largest client at the time, AT&T. With the impact on their annual revenue, they saw the need to temporarily reduce the company size, resulting in layoffs that affected many, including myself. It was a moment of uncertainty, but also one of reflection. I realized that my (then) 16 years of experience in integrated advertising, interactive design, and social media, coupled with my work across three continents, had equipped me with a unique skill set and a dynamic network of connections in the industry.
Making Lemonade: The Birth of Samba Rock
Inspired by the challenges I faced and driven by a desire to create something of my own, I founded the international advertising agency Samba Rock Marketing Consulting in March 2015. An American company based in Miami with a subsidiary in São Paulo, Samba Rock is a marketing communications company dedicated to helping brands expand globally, with a special focus on the American market. Our mission is to bridge cultural gaps and connect brands with consumers through effective advertising & marketing strategies.
Starting Samba Rock from scratch was no small feat - ownership in advertising agencies is one of the hardest jobs. With no investors and relying solely on my expertise and determination, I built the agency into a thriving business. Today, we collaborate with renowned brands such as The Nature Conservancy, AB-Inbev (Guaraná Antarctica), Conchita Foods, and Bauducco Foods, among others. Our work spans various forms of communications, from advertising services to multicultural marketing, and we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing market.
Our agency, while young, aims to make a mark among the established public relations firms and boutique agencies created by advertising veterans. By integrating consumer insights and fostering affinity among consumers, we help brands develop a strong connection with their target audience. This approach ensures long-term brand performance and success.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back, my time at Y&R Advertising, one of the biggest ad firms in the world, and part of the WPP Group, one of the largest communications networks, was instrumental in shaping my career. The experience taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. It also reinforced the value of creativity and strategic thinking in building long-term brand performance and fostering connections for brands.
At Samba Rock, we continue to leverage these lessons, offering a comprehensive suite of advertising, branding, e-commerce, and marketing services to a broader client portfolio. Our team, comprised of advertising veterans, is dedicated to delivering exceptional results and driving growth for our impressive client list by building a strong connection with consumers.
Our commitment to innovation and excellence is reflected in our membership in the Forbes Business Council and our collaboration with renowned public companies and healthcare networks. We aim to be a leader in the dynamic network of communications companies, continually expanding our client base and enhancing our service offerings.
The Road Ahead
As we move forward, Samba Rock remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what a marketing communications company can achieve. We strive to be at the forefront of innovation, helping brands navigate the complexities of global expansion and connect with consumers in meaningful ways. We aim to be the international advertising agency of record for the best brands in the world.
The journey from Y&R Miami to Samba Rock has been one of transformation and growth. It is a testament to the power of turning challenges into opportunities and the enduring impact of creativity and passion in the world of advertising and marketing.
Read the article I wrote for Forbes about this life experience by clicking this external link.
For more insights and updates on our work, visit Samba Rock Marketing Consulting or connect with me on LinkedIn.