GroupM NZ introduces Future of Work

AUCKLAND, Thursday: GroupM, WPP’s media investment group, has announced the launch of Strive in New Zealand, a future-of-work programme that aims to bring a new approach to flexibility (including parental and carers leave, mental health and wellbeing, international mobility and beyond) for all the group’s people across Mindshare, MediaCom and Wavemaker.

GroupM Australia & New Zealand ceo Aimee Buchanan (Sydney-based) said: “Strive is designed to support the people at GroupM and its agencies, giving everyone the opportunity to redefine how, where and when they work.

“The programme includes the launch of several initiatives, such as tailored flexibility plans, with more planned later in 2022. 

“GroupM has walked away from rigid guidelines like mandating specific days in the office and is taking a much more individual approach to flexibility by developing guidelines based on trust, mutual respect and equitable benefit for everyone. 

“We’re passionate about making advertising work better for people. A key part of that is making our agencies and GroupM a better place to work.

“We know the future of work is different and we want to be bold, to become a unique place that truly looks after our people. It’s not about mandating days in the office. We have an opportunity to redefine what work looks like and ensure our people, our clients and our businesses can all win together.

“Strive isn’t finished, it’s a commitment to ongoing improvement and we’ll build on it over the coming months as we continue to create an environment that is focused on outcomes for our clients, supports our people and fuels our culture.

“Every GroupM employee will create a personal Strive Flex plan developed in line with their team, the agency culture and the outcomes they need to deliver for clients. It allows GroupM employees to be there for family, friends and passions while still progressing in their career and delivering amazing work for clients. 

“So far, Strive has been incredibly well received by everyone, says GroupM NZ ceo Chris Riley.”

“Work is a part of life, not the other way around. The pandemic has taught us a new working model is needed and we’ve all shown we can work effectively and deliver as a team remotely. However, we’re all craving connection to the company and to each other. Strive Flex emphasises the importance of in-person agency cultural and collaboration moments, to grow and cultivate culture, but gives our people the opportunity to redefine how they work, where they work and when they work and be focused on delivering outcomes.

“Strive has been co-created by GroupM, Mindshare, MediaCom, Wavemaker and Essence, with working groups from every agency and business unit collaborating to create a programme that delivers for employees, clients and the business.

GroupM New Zealand ceo Chris Riley said: “We all know the past two years have been tough on all our people in New Zealand.

“With Strive and the initiatives that are part of it, we are building a better future for our people, our clients and our business.

“Our people are the foundation of our agencies and have helped co-create this program in a way that ensures we can deliver fulfilling careers within GroupM and continue to attract and retain the very best talent.

“So far, Strive has been incredibly well received by everyone locally, and we look forward to further strengthening the program.”

About GroupM
GroupM is a world-leading media investment company responsible for more than $ US 50B in annual media investment through agencies Mindshare, MediaCom, Wavemaker, Essence, and m/SIX, as well as the outcomes-driven programmatic audience company, Xaxis. GroupM’s portfolio includes Data & Technology (Choreograph), Investment, and Services.

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