Agency Search, Selection and Pitch Consulting
We are a leading intermediary consultancy that specialises in, and focuses on, the optimal marketer-agency relationship. Through transparency and impartiality in the selection processes, we are able to build results driven, mutually beneficial relationships.
As we understand and value the difference between the various disciplines, we are able to provide specific services to our diverse clients, where the impact by the agency disciplines will provide measurable growth
IAS was founded in association with the AAR Group, and was established in South Africa by Johanna McDowell in 2006. IAS has a level 4 BEE status.
Services to Marketers
Find an Agency to add value to your business!
At the IAS, we enjoy working with our marketer clients across sectors and regions to ensure their processes are smoother. We offer the following services to marketers:
Helping them find the most suitable “best fit” agencies
Managing relationships with agencies through a number of services
"We needed to change our media agency after five years, but had never run a proper review process. IAS's chemistry sessions were game-changing - we actually visited offices and met many staff, not just the pitch teams. Their media auditing was eye-opening, frankly shocking in parts. IAS didn't just find us a new agency; they educated us on being better clients."
Procurement Officer at Government Organization
Services to Agencies
Find a New Partner to add value to your business!
IAS loves working with its creative and media agency counterparts and helps them be match-fit when competing for new businesses.
If you are an agency, IAS can work with you through the following:
Subscriptions
Project Basis
"After thirteen years with one agency, we needed to review our options. The complexity was daunting. There were conflicts everywhere, and intricate negotiations were required. IAS's detective work was exceptional. They navigated the minefield expertly, giving us complete confidence in our decision."
Marketing Director of large automotive client
Picking an advertising agency is a lot like choosing from a box of assorted chocolates:
You open the lid full of excitement, seeing a tempting variety of options—some shiny and premium-looking, others quirky or promising something exotic. But you can't really tell what's inside until you bite in (or sign the contract and start working together).
One agency might look glossy and expensive like a fancy truffle, but turn out to be all hard shell with little substance (big promises, mediocre delivery).
Another could seem plain on the outside like a basic caramel, yet deliver a delightful, perfectly matched surprise that fits your brand's taste exactly.
You might pick what you think is dark chocolate (edgy, creative vibes), only to find it's milk chocolate with unexpected nuts (hidden fees, mismatched style, or surprises you didn't want).
And just like the famous line: you never know what you're gonna get — some agencies are sweet and long-lasting partners, others leave a bitter aftertaste after the first campaign.
The key? Don't just grab the prettiest one or the one everyone's raving about. Sample wisely: check references (read reviews like tasting notes), look at past work (previous "bites"), understand their strengths (flavor profiles), and make sure their style aligns with yours before committing to the whole box.
In the end, the best agency — like the best chocolate — is the one that satisfies your specific cravings and leaves you wanting to come back for more. Enjoy the selection process!
400+ Brands and Counting
We’ve been building agency relationships for the world’s leading brands across every industry for almost two decades.
AdFocus Partnership Award
Congratulation to the winner of the Financial Mail AdFocus Partnership of the Year Award, proudly sponsored by the IAS, Ogilvy SA and Volkswagen
This award celebrates the ability of agencies and clients to forge enduring, results-driven partnerships.
If you would like to see our subscribing agencies please click the buttons below.
Credential Awards
The Assegai Integrated Marketing Awards, in conjunction with the IAS, is proud to announce Ogilvy as the winner of the IAS Agency Credentials Award.
This award recognises Credentials excellence which is key for winning new business.
INDUSTRY BODIES
While IAS remains an independent company, we ensure that the local industry bodies are part of our stakeholder base. Their input is important to the ongoing professionalism of the IAS and its processes in South Africa.
INTERNATIONAL NETWORKS
As part of the AAR international group of associated companies, IAS is called on to advise on suitable South African agencies in each discipline as international pitches occur.
Now that you know us, feel free to browse through our website for more information!