Independent Adelaide agency NATION turns 10
A decade ago independent Adelaide-based agency NATION Creative came into being when its founders, Greg Knagge and Geoff Robertson, after working in traditional multinational advertising agencies saw an opportunity to create a new type of agency.
NATION was established on a simple philosophy – valuing relationships over every other aspect of business.
Applying evidence-based decision making, holistic thinking and a truly collaborative approach to working with clients has enabled the NATION team to deliver consistently against a promise of strategic creativity.
The commitment to these guiding principles has seen the agency grow to a team of 24 permanent staff members across South Australia and ACT.
Says Greg Knagge, CEO, NATION: “Our team is an amazing group of talented, intelligent people with good hearts. In a service industry, you need quality people who form trusted and honest client relationships that can weather rapidly-changing environments.”
The diverse and multiskilled team includes experienced market researchers, creative professionals and project managers with qualifications in psychology, sociology and marketing.
Over the years, NATION has developed brands and campaigns for household names including Stratco, Beyond Bank, Peet Limited, the Australian Space Agency, SA Power Networks, ActewAGL, Country Fire Service, the University of Adelaide, and the Department of Social Services.
In the current climate, reaching the ten-year marker has an even greater sense of achievement for any business owner. Creative director and recently appointed company director, Nick Brz, has been a part of NATION for over five years.
Says Brz: “Over my time here, the most rewarding thing has been to see our people grow and develop – not only within themselves but in tandem with our clients and suppliers. We’re grateful to work with such a diverse and engaged group. The idea of putting relationships above other aspects of business is a legacy I’m excited to continue.”
The past decade has seen enormous change in the marketing and communications industry and agencies have been reinvented as a result.
Adds Knagge: “Ten years in, we do much more than just make ads. Now we partner with clients to strengthen their core business and internal strategies. That enduring impact is deeply rewarding.”