After an illustrious three-decade journey, Ajaz Ahmed, the visionary founder and CEO of AKQA, has announced his decision to step down from his leadership role at the globally renowned agency. Ahmed, who founded AKQA in 1994 at just 21 years old, transformed the company into a digital powerhouse. Under his guidance, AKQA became a leader in the creative and technology space, shaping the way brands engage with consumers in the digital age.
In 2012, AKQA was acquired by global advertising giant WPP, a move that further solidified the agency’s prominence in the industry. Since 2020, AKQA has operated under the AKQA Group banner, alongside the prestigious Grey agency, creating a unique collaboration that combines creative excellence with cutting-edge technology.
With a team of over 3,000 employees spread across 20 countries, AKQA has continually set benchmarks in digital innovation, creativity, and brand strategy. Ajaz Ahmed’s departure marks the end of an era, but his legacy of redefining the digital advertising landscape will continue to inspire future generations of creative minds.
“Serving AKQA’s team, clients, and values for the past 30 years has been the greatest honour of my life,” Ahmed said in a LinkedIn post.
“Founding AKQA at a young age was the start of an incredible journey, and if destiny allows, I look forward to another 30 years of meaningful work and making a difference.
AKQA will be led operationally by the existing leadership team at AKQA and Grey, with WPP Chief Technology Officer Stephan Pretorius overseeing the business. A successor to Ahmed will be announced at a later date.
“My hope for AKQA is that our team’s drive and determination will fuel the spirit of everything we have worked for. Though I will not be at the company day-to-day, my love for AKQA will remain constant,” said Ahmed.
During his time at AKQA Ajaz has authored three best selling books: Velocity, Limitless and Defeat and has written for many of the worlds most notable news outlets including The Guardian, The Sunday Times, Fast Company and Forbes.