The inaugural Dodds Legacy event, held on 28 January at Sea Containers House in London, marked a powerful and emotional start to a programme designed to support and inspire the next generation of marketing talent.
Hosted by Ogilvy and supported by RAPP, The Marketing Skills Trust, and Paragon, the day brought together 42 young aspiring and early-career marketers for a unique experience focused on confidence, connection, and career inspiration.
The programme itself continues the values and spirit of Mike and Clare Dodds, whose lives were dedicated to helping others grow in confidence and fulfil their potential. The initiative exists to help promising young professionals build the self-belief and support networks needed to thrive in their careers.
A Moving Opening
The day began with a heartfelt and emotional welcome from the three Dodds children, who spoke movingly about their parents and the inspiration behind the programme. Their words set the tone for a day rooted not only in professional development but also in generosity, encouragement and belief in others.
It was a moment that reminded everyone present why the Legacy exists: to carry forward the kindness, mentorship and encouragement that Mike and Clare offered throughout their lives.
Building Confidence with Composure Media
The morning session was led by Luisa Baldini and Louisa Preston of Composure Media, whose highly engaging workshop focused on developing confident communication.
Through practical exercises and supportive coaching, attendees learned how to speak with greater clarity, presence and composure. The session created a safe environment for participants to step outside their comfort zones and build the confidence that so many young professionals feel they lack when starting out in the industry.
Luisa and Louise brought energy, warmth and expertise to the room, and their work was widely praised by attendees as one of the highlights of the day.
One attendee reflected:
“It was genuinely one of the most inspiring days I’ve had since starting my career. The confidence session made me realise how much of our potential is locked up in self-doubt – and how quickly that can change when someone helps you see it differently.”
Inspiration from Rory Sutherland
The afternoon featured an unforgettable talk from Rory Sutherland, Vice Chairman of Ogilvy and one of marketing’s most original thinkers.
Rory delivered a characteristically thought-provoking and entertaining session, sharing insights from his career and encouraging the audience to embrace curiosity, creativity and unconventional thinking.
His message resonated strongly with the group: great ideas often come from questioning assumptions and having the courage to think differently.
To mark the occasion, every attendee received a signed copy of Rory’s bestselling book Alchemy, creating a lasting reminder of the day and its inspiration.
Another attendee commented:
“Hearing Rory Sutherland speak was incredible. His message about curiosity and thinking differently really stuck with me. It reminded me why I wanted to work in marketing in the first place.”
Mentoring That Continues Beyond the Day
Importantly, the event was never intended to be a one-day experience.
A distinguished group of industry mentors-including Dame Cilla Snowball, Jane Rankin, Martin Troughton, Polly Jones, and Guy Lambert-have committed to supporting participants beyond the event itself, helping them build networks, develop confidence and navigate their careers.
Follow-up initiatives are already underway, including a LinkedIn masterclass session designed to help attendees strengthen their personal profiles and professional presence online.
A Community Effort
The success of the event was made possible through the support of several organisations committed to developing future marketing talent.
Special thanks go to:
- Ogilvy, for generously hosting the event at Sea Containers House
- RAPP, for supporting the programme
- The Marketing Skills Trust, for helping drive the initiative
- Paragon, who kindly printed materials for the day
Their support reflects a shared belief that the marketing industry thrives when it invests in the people who will shape its future.
A Fitting Tribute
The first Dodds Legacy event was more than a workshop or networking opportunity. It was a day of encouragement, inspiration and connection that reflected the values Mike and Clare lived by.
It was also just the beginning.
With mentoring relationships already forming and further sessions planned, the programme is continuing to grow into exactly what it was intended to be: a living legacy that builds confidence, opens doors, and helps the next generation of marketers believe in their potential.
A remarkable start-and a truly fitting tribute to Mike and Clare.
