Following the success of the inaugural Dodds Legacy session in January, the programme returned to Sea Containers House in London on 4 March for a second event that continued to build momentum behind this growing initiative.
Once again Ogilvy generously hosted, with support from RAPP, The Marketing Skills Trust and Paragon, welcoming over 30 aspiring and early-career marketers who had been unable to attend the first session but were equally eager to benefit from the programme.
The event reinforced the mission of the Dodds Legacy: to help talented young people develop confidence, perspective and networks as they begin their careers in marketing and communications.
Opening the Day
The session began with Ellie and Matt Dodds, who introduced the thinking behind the Legacy and the inspiration drawn from their parents, Mike and Clare.
They spoke about the belief that defined both of their lives – that encouragement, opportunity and confidence can unlock extraordinary potential in others.
This message was reinforced by Guy Lambert, Mike’s former co-CEO during their time at Ogilvy, who spoke passionately about why initiatives like the Dodds Legacy matter.
Guy reflected on the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation of talent and ensuring the industry remains open, supportive and accessible to those at the start of their careers.
Storytelling in an AI Era
The first main session of the day came from Kevin Chesters, who delivered a fascinating talk on the enduring power of storytelling in an age increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence.
Kevin reminded attendees that every generation believes it is living through the biggest technological shift in history. Yet when viewed in context, AI is simply the latest in a long line of transformative innovations – from the printing press, to electricity, to the internet.
While technology will undoubtedly change how work is done, Kevin argued that human creativity and storytelling will always remain central to marketing.
His talk resonated strongly with the audience and concluded with Kevin signing copies of his book The Creative Nudge for attendees.
One participant reflected:
“Kevin Chesters’ talk completely reframed how I think about AI. It was reassuring and inspiring at the same time – technology may change the tools we use, but creativity and storytelling are still at the heart of marketing.”
The Value of Ambition
Next, the group heard from recruitment and executive search star Adam Leigh, who delivered a highly practical session about the origins and importance of ambition.
Adam explored how ambition often develops through personal experiences and setbacks, encouraging attendees to recognise their own motivations and pursue opportunities with confidence.
He also shared a series of extremely practical tips for those entering the industry – from how to secure interviews, to preparing effectively, and crucially how to follow up afterwards.
One of his most memorable pieces of advice encouraged attendees to follow up “like an American” – confidently, professionally and persistently – a phrase that drew plenty of smiles and enthusiastic note-taking from the audience.
Confidence Coaching with Composure Media
The afternoon concluded with an exceptional session from Luisa Baldini of Composure Media, who once again delivered a powerful workshop focused on confidence and communication.
As a highly experienced broadcast journalist and news presenter who has delivered major news stories to the nation, Luisa brought a unique perspective to the topic of projecting confidence under pressure.
Through practical exercises and group interaction, attendees learned techniques to help them bring their best selves to the front, communicate ideas clearly, and project calm confidence in professional situations.
As one attendee commented afterwards:
“Learning confidence techniques from someone who has broadcast live to millions was incredible. It made the idea of presenting in a meeting suddenly feel a lot less intimidating.”
Mentoring the Next Generation
As with the first event, mentoring remains at the heart of the Dodds Legacy programme.
Participants will continue to benefit from the guidance of an impressive group of industry mentors, including Ogilvy and advertising legend Paul O’Donnell, Sam Williams-Thomas, Kineta Kelsall, and James Hankins, among others.
These mentors will help participants build networks, develop confidence and navigate their early careers in the industry.
A Growing Legacy
The second event confirmed what many had already suspected after the inaugural session: the Dodds Legacy is quickly becoming a powerful platform for supporting the next generation of marketing talent.
The continued backing of Ogilvy, RAPP, The Marketing Skills Trust and Paragon reflects a shared belief that the industry thrives when it invests in people.
Most importantly, the programme continues to embody the spirit of Mike and Clare Dodds – creating opportunities, building confidence and helping others realise their potential.
With growing interest, expanding mentorship and more sessions planned, the Dodds Legacy is only just getting started.
