Propaganda has strengthened its team with two new junior hires, reaffirming its commitment to developing emerging talent at a time when many agencies are using the rise of AI as justification for reducing or eliminating junior roles.
Joshua Hoyle joins Propaganda as a Junior Designer, having graduated from Liverpool John Moores University in 2024. Since graduating, Josh has worked as a freelance designer whilst managing Pollen Bakery in Manchester. He will support the creative team on a broad range of design projects, led by Creative Director, Lee Bennett, who himself joined Propaganda as a fresh graduate 24 years ago and has risen through the ranks.
Frankie Gyde joins the agency as a Strategy & Planning Executive, having recently completed a masters at the University of Sheffield. Bringing an analytical and inquisitive approach to the role, she will work with the team across diverse briefs, led by Tom Fowler, Director of Planning & Strategy.
These appointments are part of a conscious decision by the agency to continue creating opportunities for people just starting their careers. Propaganda sees AI as a vital tool to enhance knowledge and judgement, having announced a six-figure investment earlier this year in a proprietary AI platform that will draw on over 30 years of the agency’s strategic insight.
But with the rapid development of AI tech leading businesses to reduce investment in junior roles, Propaganda is convinced that there is no substitute for developing talented people through hands-on experience, mentorship and collaboration.
Laura Kynaston, Managing Director at Propaganda, said: “Investing in talent has always been a huge priority at Propaganda, and quarter of our team have been with us for over a decade. AI is already changing the way businesses operate, and our industry should embrace that. But that doesn’t mean we can afford to stop investing in people. If anything, this risks agencies losing the very point of view that makes their work distinctive.
“We’re already seeing more and more agencies churning out the same stuff, without the long-term strategic thinking or the unique perspective that makes great work stand out. At Prop, we’ve seen first-hand the value that comes from backing talented people early and we’re committed to keeping that going.”