2024 Best PR Agencies to Work For, Asia-Pacific

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Best Agency to Work For is possibly the only predictive award that PRovoke Media gives out. By this, we mean there’s a direct correlation between the agencies on this list and those that take home our biggest honor (often times at some point in the future) — Agency of the Year recognition. Firms that take culture seriously are far more likely to attract and retain smart and creative talent who, in turn, produce stellar work. It’s a simple formula but one that’s easily overlooked amid the breathless pace and tremendous pressures that are a seemingly inevitable reality of agency life. But this pace is exactly why agencies shouldn’t underestimate the power its culture has on the work its employees produce, factors that have only increased in prominence amid the turbulence of the past few years.

The firms recognized on the rankings include a few holding company firms, but mostly independents. Some have generous benefits, others prioritize mental health, professional development or interesting work that keeps talent engaged. All of them have built cultures that are resilient, inclusive and, more often than not, fun.

The top ranked agency in each category will be recognised at the 2024 Asia-Pacific SABRE Awards, taking place on September 19 in Singapore. Tickets for the evening ceremony are available here, as part of the PRovoke Asia-Pacific Summit on the same day.

BEST ASIA-PACIFIC AGENCY TO WORK FOR, LARGE (90+)

#1 Allison (Stagwell Group)

For the first time in its history, Allison is named a Best Agency to Work For in Asia-Pacific, reflecting the inclusive, collaborative culture that has been built at the 100-strong agency in this region. The firm scored particularly highly for its collaborative and kind approach, . Allison's employee responses also reflect the excellent job the firm does on DEI, across gender, ethnicity and anti-discrimation, alongside strong scores for empowering women in leadership positions.

In common with its global parent, Allison’s employee offering provides a range of professional development and cultural benefits, including work from anywhere programs, mentoring, unlimited PTO, and considerable welleness and parental support. Each market has its own hybrid working arrangement, while there are employee subcommittees to drive wellness and social activities, supported by benefits across health, wellness, learning and development, financial, and flexibility policies. The firm's DEI approach aims to embrace diversity across all aspects of identity, reflected by gender balanced leadership and a culture of empowerment.

One representative employee comment describes the culture as "easygoing, collaborative, supportive", while another lauds the flexible, empowering and ambitious environment. "A relaxed and comfortable environment, along with the trust of my work partners, allows me the freedom to manage my time to accomplish the tasks I am responsible for."

#2 Archetype (Next 15)

#3 Golin (Interpublic Group)

#4 DeVries Group (IPG)

#5 Sandpiper (Independent)

BEST ASIA-PACIFIC AGENCY TO WORK FOR, MIDSIZE (40-89)

#1 On Purpose (India/Independent)

On Purpose’s focus on social change begins with its own people, and it is surely not overstating things to say that the firm is one of the most advanced in terms of DEI, not just in India, but on a global basis. Benefits include paid period leave and parental leave, while there are also specific initiatives focused on workplace D&I, unconscious bias and mental wellbeing. The firm scored highest on leadership values and collaboration, its empowerment of women, for its focus on DEI and sexual identities and for its ethical approach to employees and clients.

"They are a forward looking agency, doing impactful work, while also encouraging their employees to grow," said one staffer. Another praised the firm for being "open-minded, inclusive, understanding, and driven", while another described what they love most as: "Our clients and the work we do. It is for a cause and I really appreciate it."

#2 Rice Communications (Singapore/Independent)

#3 GCI Health (Regional/WPP)

BEST ASIA-PACIFIC AGENCY TO WORK FOR, SMALL (10-39)

#1 PR Wire (Sri Lanka/Independent)

Sri Lankan market leader PR Wire wins Best Agency to Work For honours for the third consecutive year, thanks to a work culture that prioritises a culture of belonging, respect and innovation. The agency's staff score their employer particularly highly for collaboration, DEI, professional support, ethics and workplace benefits, with one noting "an organization that genuinely prioritizes ethical practices and mental well-being."

In terms of specific policies, PR Wire's work from anywhere policy and female empowerment stand out, while there are also initiatives that invest in professional development and DEI. "My favorite thing about the agency is the collaborative and dynamic culture that fosters creativity and innovation, " says one respondent, while others praise the leadership, compensation and creativity.

#2 Sefiani (Australia/Independent)

#3 Veritas Reputation PR (India/Independent)

#4 Honner (Australia/Independent)

#5 Bud Comms (Singapore/Independent)