Cliff Atkinson is returning to Saatchi & Saatchi, this time as the agency’s first-ever director of culture and DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion). In his new role, Atkinson will be responsible for building initiatives that speak to the agency’s values and build on the existing DE&I framework. Atkinson was selected for the role because of his passion for giving back to his community and proven track record of promoting diversity efforts at legacy brands.
“I know Saatchi’s culture–it’s like family to me and it’s where I’ve done some of the best work in my career,” said Atkinson. “Now that I’m back, I’m excited to take on this new challenge that will allow me to drive change within the agency, with the hope of contributing to a more diverse industry overall.”
Aktinson previously served as sr. director at the Saatchi & Saatchi Los Angeles office for 12-plus years, working on Toyota until 2018. In 2021, he co-founded a nonprofit organization creating a pipeline to connect ethnically diverse youth to opportunities in advertising and film. Atkinson is also the co-founder of Mesh Communities, a community-focused platform built to provide creators and communities ownership of their digital spaces.
“Cliff is a talented natural collaborator and a highly strategic problem solver,” said Chuck Maguy, CEO and president at Saatchi & Saatchi. “His return will strengthen Saatchi & Saatchi’s goal towards a more inclusive future by leading the agency’s cultural efforts to make real, impactful change and continue what has already been started at a grassroots level.”
For more than 20 years, Atkinson has helped some of the biggest brands in the world level-up their marketing efforts by developing and implementing innovative digital strategies to solve business challenges and produce exceptional client outcomes. He began his career at Grey NY and has since held key positions at Deutsch NY and LA, Saatchi & Saatchi and RPA. His industry experience spans multiple world-class accounts including Toyota, Honda, Procter & Gamble, Coors Light, Cedar Sinai, Sony Consumer Electronics, Starwood Hotels and more. Over the years, his has amassed a list of awards, including Cannes Lions, Clios, One Show and more.
In his new role, Atkinson will work hand-in-hand with the Saatchi Diversity Task Force to continue the growth and development of the agency’s culture of inclusion. A key focus will be helping recruit, retain and advance people of color into leadership roles. In his new position, Atkinson hopes to support multigenerational workforces, further inclusivity, impart cultural awareness and create a work environment that fosters authenticity and originality.
