Driving relevance means driving growth. Join global brands and industry thought leaders at Brandweek, Sept. 11–14 in Miami, for actionable takeaways to better your marketing. 50% off passes ends April 10.
Typically speaking, agency founders strive for the big payday that comes with a major holding company acquisition. But this year saw two shops aim to do the exact opposite, namely regain their independence by ending decades-long relationships with Interpublic Group.
Dailey Advertising, which IPG had owned for more than 30 years, completed a buyback last February after the holding group approached the agency with an offer following a series of strategic discussions.
“[It was] a mutual decision, done in a thoughtful way,” said managing partner Jean Grabow, adding that Dailey “wanted to nurture the culture we already have as a strong branding agency.”
The Los Angeles-based agency formed a new leadership structure around Grabow and fellow managing partners Michelle Wong, Steve Mitchell, Brad Johnson and Bill Waldner, with former CEO Tom Lehr opting not to participate.

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.
Subscribe today!
To Read the Full Story Become an Adweek+ Subscriber
Already a member? Sign in