Today, Highdive, one of the fastest-growing and most celebrated independent advertising agencies, announced the promotion of co-founder Megan Lally from managing partner to CEO.
Megan Lally has been a formidable force behind Highdive’s exponential growth, which includes a 20% YOY increase, the expansion to over 100 employees, and recognition on notable industry lists like Ad Age’s 2023 A-List and Crain Chicago Business' Fast 50. She has a "direct and human leadership style," that focuses on "relationships, healthy relationships," according to Jon Marks, Senior Director at Beam Suntory.
Before co-founding Highdive, Lally served at top-tier agencies like Leo Burnett and DDB. She worked on award-winning campaigns for major brands like Allstate, Capital One, and PepsiCo.
Highdive is known for its culturally resonant advertising, topping the USA Today Super Bowl Ad Meter for three consecutive years and collaborating with celebrities like Danny DeVito, Anna Kendrick, and Bill Murray. The agency continues to attract sought-after clients such as Dollar Shave Club and State Farm, in addition to retaining long-term partnerships with brands like Jersey Mikes and Beam Suntory.
"Megan is an exceptional leader and visionary," said Mark Gross, Highdive's co-founder and co-chief creative officer. “Her positivity, enthusiasm, and drive make her a joy to work with, and under her leadership, Highdive will continue to soar to new heights."
Founded in 2016, Highdive is a full-service creative agency based in Chicago that aims to "create the healthiest client and agency relationships in the world." The agency's work spans across multiple brands including Jeep, Ram Trucks, Airheads, Lay's, and Rocket Mortgage.
Megan Lally’s elevation to the CEO position is a testament to her incomparable leadership qualities and vision for the agency. It's an exciting time for Highdive, which is already on a high growth trajectory, and it will be interesting to see where she takes the agency next.
