The advertising industry is one of constant evolution – dynamic, fast-paced, and, historically, dominated by men.
For decades, women have faced unique challenges, navigating a landscape rife with gender biases and obstacles that made it difficult to break through the glass ceiling.
However, in recent years, the tide has begun to turn. Female leaders are not only making significant strides but are also setting new standards of excellence and reshaping the narrative of what it means to lead in this space.
When I first launched The Creative9, it was a startup competing against established multinational giants. Convincing major brands to place their trust in a new agency – let alone one led by a woman – was no small feat. I knew we had to prove that our ideas, talent, and passion were unmatched.
Have you booked your seat at the Campaign Breakfast Briefing event yet?
Join us this Friday, September 6, for The Future is Now event being held at the Grand Plaza Mövenpick, Media City. Click here to buy tickets.
It wasn’t just about securing clients, though. Early in my career, I remember bringing a male colleague to a meeting and noticing an immediate shift in how we were received. His mere presence seemed to validate our pitch, making our audience more attentive. It was both frustrating and eye-opening. While it would have been easy to rely on that dynamic to gain an edge, I chose a different path.
I believed – and still do – that success should be built on the strength of our work, not on gender dynamics.
It’s proven successful to have a management style centred on mentorship. This approach, however, has sometimes been met with scrutiny. Being assertive as a woman in leadership often invites labels that my male counterparts don’t face.
Where my assertiveness might be seen as harsh, the same behaviour from a male leader could be viewed as decisive. Though I take all feedback on board, I’ve constantly resisted letting such misconstrued perceptions dictate how I work. Instead, I’ve focused on creating an environment where talent is recognised and nurtured, irrespective of gender.
Success without compromise
Another challenge that many women, including myself, grapple with is the perceived need to choose between building a career and starting a family. The pressures of the industry, coupled with societal expectations, made it seem like an impossible choice. I was often advised to slow down, to hold back – because “women can’t do it all”.
But the landscape is changing. Female leaders are increasingly creating inclusive environments that champion collaboration and mentorship, paving the way for others to rise.
Their contributions are essential in an industry where understanding and connecting with diverse audiences is crucial. We’re seeing women at the helm of groundbreaking campaigns that challenge societal norms, and agencies being founded with a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
Breaking the glass ceiling: The way forward
While progress is undeniable, there is still work to be done. The glass ceiling may be cracked, but it hasn’t shattered yet.
Pay disparities and underrepresentation in top leadership roles persist, and gender biases still linger. However, the increasing visibility and recognition of female leaders in advertising gives me hope for the future.
Each success story chips away at the barriers that remain, bringing us closer to a world where leadership is defined by talent, vision, and determination – regardless of gender.
By Rola Ghotmeh, Founder and Chief Creative Officer, The Creative9.
