Attracting new business is an ongoing pursuit for successful communication agencies around the globe, and the Independent Agency Search and Selection Company (IAS) is unveiling secrets to success from a local and international perspective.

For six consecutive weeks from Wednesday 24 January 2018, the IAS will run its “winning new business” course for agencies – aimed at equipping communication agencies with the skills and guidance required for advertising, media, public relations, design and digital agencies to overcome the challenges associated with winning new business.

“The IAS course features six standard sessions over the six week period and is open to both IAS subscribers and non-subscribers. To ensure personal attention and engagement, a maximum of ten (10) delegates will be accommodated,” says Johanna McDowell, Managing Director at the IAS.

The course is facilitated by Johanna McDowell, whose background includes being on both the agency and the client side of the fence. Johanna is ideally placed to offer commentary and direction on marketing and advertising in both the South African and international contexts.

An “entrepreneur at heart in a power suit”, McDowell has built her career in marketing and advertising since 1974, starting her career in marketing in the UK, Johanna moved into the world of advertising for the following 15 years – both in the UK and South Africa – culminating in being appointed CEO of Grey Phillips advertising agency in 1989.

She understands the industry from the inside: She built Integrated Communications, a public relations-driven marketing communications company that went from zero base in 1991 to an R8 million fee turnover by December 2004.

“Experiential training that includes role playing and group work will form part of learning how to approach – and win - new business in a perfect blend of knowledge that will serve all types of agencies in the communication industry,” continues Johanna.

Who will benefit from this course? 

• Agency staff who have at least three years’ experience in an advertising agency, public relations agency, digital, design or media agency
• Agency management, including client service, strategy planning, media and creative staff
• Individuals involved in any new business pitching processes, new business managers and directors

What you need to know: 

• Time: 30 am to 9.30 am
• Venue: IAS Offices & Training Room – Le Val, North Building, 45 Jan Smuts Avenue, Cnr. The Valley Road, Westcliff, Johannesburg

Ivestment per delegate :

• R 7500 ex VAT – IAS subscribers
• R 12 500 ex VAT – non-subscribers

Agencies are advised to book their seats as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Bookings and & Payment deadline 11 January 2018.  

Bookings and contact details

For bookings and more information, please contact Hlamazi Mabunda on (010) 594 0281 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ABOUT THE IAS

The IAS (Independent Agency Search and Selection Company) in association with the AAR Group (UK) was founded in South Africa by the Mazole Holdings Group in 2006. IAS specialises in client/agency relationship management and helping clients find agencies. International associate company AAR Group, was founded more than 35 years ago in the UK and has associates and branches throughout the world. 

The Independent Agency Search & Selection Company is committed to the international and local pitch guidelines as defined by both the IPA (Institute of Practitioners in Advertising UK) and the ACA (The Association of Communications Agencies SA).   

Mazole Holdings is a South African company owned 51% by Dan Moyane and 49% by Johanna McDowell. Mazole focuses on building businesses in the marketing and communications space. 

The IAS is a level 2 BEE contributor.   

www.agencyselection.co.za