Richard Medley

I’ve spent more than 25 years around agency board tables, including as Managing Director of four communications agencies across global networks and independents. Today I’m a Board Director and advisor helping independent agencies make better decisions about growth, positioning, people, clients and reputation. I was named to the ‘Independent Impact 50’ in 2026, recognising advisors making an impact across the UK independent sector.

Alongside running my own strategic consultancy, I sit on two agency boards, advise large corporates and punchy start-ups, and mentor leaders through imposter syndrome moments and game changing choices. I understand what an agency needs commercially, what its people experience internally, what clients actually value and what the outside market sees and assesses. My particular focus is the space between those things, finding where perception and reality don't quite match, where differentiation has become sameness, and where familiar agency habits are getting in the way of growth.

My goal is always to be useful, helpful and generous. Constructive challenge, opinions and positive support come as standard. Ultimately I help you find the thinking time you know you don't have. For those 5 coffees needed before 11AM problems, as well as for the longer-term planning.