Ajaz Ahmed's Studio Establishes Presence in the United States by Planting a Flag
New Creative Agency Studio.One Embraces Decentralized Approach and Digital Expertise
In May 2021, Ajaz Ahmed, the founder of AKQA, launched a new independent creative agency named Studio.One. The agency, which operates without a physical headquarters, is making waves in the advertising industry with its unique structure and focus on digital expertise.
As the managing partner of Studio.One, Erik Rogstad, a former AKQA exec, leads a team of seasoned creatives and strategists who have previously worked with notable clients such as Delta, UPS, Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and Nike. The team, currently consisting of 12 full-time staffers who work remotely across eight states, meets for "intentional gatherings" in various cities like D.C., New York, and San Francisco.
Studio.One operates with a decentralized approach, emphasizing flexibility and a flat hierarchy. The agency has a simple structure with only three job levels: partner, director, and creator. This streamlined setup allows for a more efficient integration of strategic thinking with creative output.
The agency's services include brand identity, experience design, and digital product development. Studio.One's focus is on helping companies with scale innovate and helping innovative companies scale. Ajaz Ahmed has secured funding from U.K.-based private equity firm Atrium Group to help the agency connect with emerging AI-led businesses as prospective clients.
The pipeline for Studio.One is currently "massive" according to managing partner Erik Rogstad. The agency is actively hiring for roles across all three job levels.
Studio.One's mission is to challenge and innovate agency structures and creative processes, making it more nimble and conceptually driven compared to traditional advertising agencies known for their layered, complex organizational structures and often disconnected brand silos. This reflects a broader industry trend where newer agencies like Studio.One prioritize flexible, idea-driven structures rather than the large, bureaucratic models of legacy agencies.
Ajaz Ahmed, who resigned from WPP where he was the CEO of AKQA after working there for three decades, is excited about the potential of Studio.One. The agency plans to grow its U.S. headcount to 50 by next year, continuing to redefine the advertising industry with its decentralized approach and focus on digital expertise.
An entrepreneurial venture named Studio.One, founded by Ajaz Ahmed, delves into the realm of finance by seekings funds from private equity firms like Atrium Group to foster connections with innovative, AI-led businesses. As a digital-focused creative agency, Studio.One encourages interest in entrepreneurship by offering services that help companies scale and innovate, thereby Staking a claim in the financing, business, and defi sectors.
