In this latest instalment of Greg ‘Sparrow’ Graham’s expeditious interview series, Fast 10, he catches new Havas Media CEO Kate O’Ryan-Roeder as she passes three months in the role.
1. If you had to pick only one career highlight so far, what would it be?
Wow tough question, only one! The real highlight has always been the journey itself. Whether it has been in local or global roles, it’s been a series of moments fuelled by curiosity, constant learning and an industry that never stands still, which is exactly why I love the work we do. But if I had to pick one, it would be stepping into the CEO role at Havas Media just three months ago. It’s the start of an exciting new chapter and I’m energised by what’s ahead.
2. What’s been your most memorable pitch and why?
Helping steward a global Unilever pitch as part of a London‑based global team stands out. It was intense, fast and a little mad, bringing 60+ markets together across cultures, time zones and consumers. It felt like large‑scale diplomacy at pace, aligning everyone behind one direction against a ticking clock. The camaraderie, shared pride and ultimate win made it unforgettable.
3. You were part of The Marketing Academy. How did that experience inform your leadership style?
It gave me clarity and perspective, both professionally and personally as I was pregnant with our first child at the time. It reinforced that great leadership comes from authenticity and values, not trying to force fit yourself into a mould. Most importantly, it gave me the confidence to stick to my guns and lead in a way that’s genuinely me.
4. As a young girl, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A journalist or a sports psychologist. They sound like random choices, but in hindsight they’re probably more connected than they first seem. Both driven by curiosity, the power of communication and what makes people tick under pressure. Turns out, those early interests have followed me into leadership and the industry I now call home.
5. You have always championed talented people. Who have been the mentors that shaped you as a leader?
I’ve been incredibly fortunate with mentors, starting with Paula, an early line manager in London who believed in me before I believed in myself, through to brilliant CEOs in London and Australia. Along the way, I’ve also sought out different points of view, including CFOs who sharpened my commercial thinking and mentors outside our industry who’ve given me broader perspective. I’m a huge believer in the power of mentoring; it’s played a big role in getting me to where I am today and it’s why I love paying it forward whenever I can.
6. As an industry, what’s one thing you would change to make us all better?
We’re getting better at using technology, now we need to get braver with what it frees up. AI and automation should eliminate the busywork so we can double down on critical thinking, building great partnerships and creating work that delivers real impact. That’s the change that will make us all better.
7. In tough times, how are you driving Havas clients’ sales and growth?
It comes down to focus and partnership. We’re staying true to the strategy we’ve just built and doubling down on what genuinely moves the needle for our clients. By using technology thoughtfully and leveraging the full strength of the wider Havas Village, we’re sharpening our focus on critical thinking, stronger partnerships and ideas that drive real business impact for our clients.
8. What’s the best career advice you’ve ever been given?
“You can learn something from everyone.”
And if I could sneak in a second, “always make friends with finance”.
9. What’s one thing that’s not on your LinkedIn profile?
My music taste is questionable at best; I’m permanently parked in the ’90s!
10. Important last question: do your parents really know what you do?
They think it’s about “buying ads” and lots (and lots) of meetings, but they do know how much I love what I do. My kids, on the other hand, are endlessly fascinated that some channels still have ads and are convinced I’m personally responsible for interrupting their favourite shows.
