For the past two decades, Harjot Singh’s unwavering zeal to excel in comprehending people, brands, and cultures from both creative and commercial angles has propelled him on a remarkable global journey. With an extensive footprint spanning six countries across three continents, he has cultivated, delivered, and moulded strategic solutions for some of the planet's most successful brands.
In 2021, Harjot assumed the esteemed role of Global Chief Strategy Officer at McCann and soon went on to become Groupwide Global Chief Strategy Officer of McCann Worldgroup in 2023, a renowned advertising agency brand with a presence across its worldwide network. Prior to this, he held the position of Chief Strategy Officer EMEA.
Harjot's journey includes a stint as the Head of Planning at BBDO China in Shanghai from 2003 to 2006 before he transitioned to North America. On this side of the globe, he has held significant planning and leadership roles at Cossette Canada, Leo Burnett Canada, and Grey Canada, where he stood as the Head of Planning.

We discuss:
-Growing up in India
-Realising you’re different from others
-Falling in love with advertising and pursuing a career in it
-Being told, “You must be more humble.”
-Deciding you want a global role
-What to do if others don’t believe in you
-Becoming Global Chief Strategy Officer of one of the most iconic agencies - Mccann Worldgroup
-Repairing your relationship with your family
-Never dimming your light for others

Chapters:
00:00 Trailer
01:12 Intro
01:32 Ashley's Intro Poem
02:28 Harjot's Summary
07:03 Harjot's Childhood
14:42 Finding A Passion For Adverting
18:33 Relationship With Family
22:14 Education
27:14 Challenges In Early Adulthood
34:26 Getting Your Foot In The Door
42:44 Wanting A Global Role
48:32 Working In China
55:45 Moving Back To Canada
58:23 Moving To New York
01:02:36 McCann
01:10:37 Not Letting Limits Define You
01:15:33 Advice On Getting A Global Role
01:25:06 Becoming Global Chief Strategy Officer At McCann
01:27:44 What Needs To Change In The Industry
01:32:02 Family Relationship Reflections
01:37:07 Final Words
01:38:18 Charles' Summary
01:39:54 Ashley's Final Poem
1:41:29 Outro

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Unity & Motion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - A London based production company specialising in commercials and branded content

Email: info@weunify.co.uk

This is a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠UNIFY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast. Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unity & Motion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Credits:
Director: Charles Parkinson
Poet & VO Artist: Ashley Samuels-McKenzie
Editor:  Catherine Singh