We are so proud to announce that OMD EMEA’s dynamic duo of Ben Lynch and Sam Karjalainen, have beaten 175 other pairs of entrants to be named the winners’ of the Advertising Association’s Cannes Young Lions Media competition.
Ben & Sam beat entrants from across all holding companies in the UK to win the coveted first prize of a trip to Cannes Lions, to represent the UK and compete against 91 other country leaders for the chance to be named the global winner.
The brief focused on the theme of diversity & inclusion, challenging entrants to strategise innovative ways in which our industry can attract and retain a diverse workforce, ensuring inclusivity for all.
On winning the UK competition, Ben and Sam said; “After a few late nights, double-digit coffees over an intensive weekend, we are thrilled to have our hard work recognised and take the top prize in the Young Lions competition. Having both entered the competition multiple times before, we are excited to represent the UK at Cannes Lions.”
Ben moved to OMD EMEA from PHD Sydney a year ago, where he was working as Planning Director leading PepsiCo’s planning. Bringing with him a huge passion for strategy & inventive solutions, today he is OMD EMEA’s Data & Technology Director across PepsiCo.
Sam is also originally from Sydney and works in a digital role as Senior Manager on PepsiCo at OMD EMEA. He has hands-on experience planning and buying across all channels, and a passion for data, insights and analytics.
Stay tuned to Advertising Association to see all the fantastic work entered and view the full winners’ list.