Why industry commitment matters to DNA

Our commitment to the industry

More than turning up to events, we want to contribute to the conversations that drive our industry forward. That's why we prioritise partnering with events that matter to our industry. This isn’t new for us. Supporting the people and ideas has been part of our rhythm for over 17 years. But in a year like 2026, with so much change and possibility in the air, it’s become even more important.

We’re proud to be the Official Talent Partner to three of the most important platforms for our market: MAD//Fest, MAD//North and the BD100.

That title means something. It’s a deep, ongoing relationship with the events and the people behind them. This is our commitment to supporting the businesses, the events, the talent and the ideas that keep this industry moving.

MAD//Fest

As Official Talent Partner to MAD//Fest, we show up across the marketing festival not as visitors, but as part of the fabric of it. From our conversations with agency leaders and brand builders to chats with ambitious founders and rising stars, one thing always stands out: everyone’s gearing up for what’s next.

We appreciate the energy, but moreover, we're glad it's paired with action. What we're seeing is how leaders are shifting their focus to capability and growth. They’re thinking seriously about the people they need around them to deliver on the next groundbreaking campaign or transformative idea. That’s exactly where our role comes in. We know what good looks like when it comes to talent demand - we anticipate it, we shape it, and then, we make it happen.

MAD//North

We’re equally proud to be the Official Talent Partner to MAD//North, the northern home of MAD//Fest. The same energetic magnet pulls together thousands of the most influential brands, agencies, publishers and platforms in Manchester. It's a room we’re committed to being in. We're there to connect the right people to the right opportunities across the north and beyond.

The BD100

And then, as Official Talent Partner to the BD100, we’re behind the celebration of the best business developers in the country. Recognising the people who win the work and grow this industry matters to us, because it’s exactly the kind of talent are championing with our work. 

 

Being part of the ecosystem

We believe industry involvement has to be active and consistent. These partnerships aren’t mere transactions. Instead we make sure each is built on real relationships and a shared belief that brilliant people are what keep our industry moving forward.

Being this embedded gives us something you can’t get from the outside. A sharper read on the market. Plus, we get access to the people and rooms that other recruiters simply don’t reach. When we understand what agencies and brands are facing right now, we do our job better for the clients we work with.

Backing talent internally too

Industry commitment isn’t only external. At DNA, it’s also about how we support our own team.

From our remote-first model to monthly in-person get-togethers, we make sure our people have the space, trust and tools to grow. We believe the results speak for themselves: high performers and brilliant recruiters doing the best work of their careers. We’re proud to work this way, because how we show up internally reflects how we work with our clients.

Our Official Talent Partnerships are the heart of how we back this industry, but they’re far from the whole picture. You’ll also find us in attendance at other events that shape where marketing and branding are going -  from SXSW to Cannes Lions - and getting behind the causes that matter to the people in it. We were proud to be the Official Sponsor Partner of the first-ever NABS Growth Hack to help build a growth strategy to secure its future. This matters because NABS is the safety net for the very community we’re part of. Wherever the industry gathers and whoever needs backing, we want to be there. It’s a massive part of who we are.

Looking ahead

We’re feeling energised by what’s coming. The conversations we have at events like MAD//Fest remind us that ambition is everywhere. Ambition is what drives the brand teams thinking ahead to Q4 and it is what motivates the scale-ups getting serious about employer brand.

We’re here for all of it. As recruiters, yes. But also as supporters, sponsors, partners and peers. That’s the DNA way!