Why We Left and Started IMAGINE

A bold and powerful manifesto for the kind of agency we've always aspired to belong to. The decision to hit the eject button and leave our previous positions was driven by our realisation that the existing music agency model, reliant on long outdated methods and hierarchical structures, is no longer sufficient for today's brands or their agencies. Unsatisfied by the restrictions of an overgrown corporate structure, we decided to go independent.

Art in the front, business in the back. We envisioned a space where ideas could be as dynamic and diverse as the people and tech our brands employ. Thinking differently isn't just a philosophy; it's our operational blueprint. Break free from the constraints of bulky organisational structures, and curate talent for each unique challenge. Where others see limitations, we see opportunities.

“Our independence is our greatest asset, allowing us to forge meaningful partnerships and tailor our approach to ensure every brand's sonic experience is uniquely their own” said Valentin Keil.

We recognised the necessity for a lean infrastructure, we've committed ourselves to a model that allows for rapid adaptation and ideation. Be like water. Continuously learning along the way. This approach isn't just theoretical; it's been proven by agencies founded on those very ideals of creativity and strategy that we admire, like Uncommon, Mischief and Mother Berlin.

Creativity is our lifeblood. It shapes our ideas, and defines our interactions with the brands we work with. The ultimate paths forward are those paved by creative thought, inspired by a deep understanding of both the brand's identity and the landscape it operates within. 

Our leadership team isn’t about titles or hierarchy; it’s about partnership, and honesty. This reflects our deep rooted belief in the power of leadership equality, actively dismantling traditional power dynamics in favour of a culture rich in collaboration, respect, shared vision and breaking the mould.

“As the founders, we share responsibility, driven by unity. We champion inclusivity, from robust parental leave policies to a culture that values ongoing feedback and sustainable team growth. With a focus on flexibility, diversity, and mutual support, we guide our business with a clear purpose.” said Vivika Zuske

“Diversity, to us, means more than just a wide range of voices; it's about creating a mosaic of talent and experience that can bring unparalleled depth to our projects” said Liam Klemenc

Treating our external talent with the utmost respect and fairness is a given. Fostering collaboration at every stage of the creative process is paramount. We recognise that it's through great collaboration with our creative network that we break free from the mundane.

“We value these creative partnerships and recognise that our success is intertwined with theirs. Fair compensation and proper crediting are non-negotiables in our commitment to our external partners and suppliers. We ensure that no talent remains nameless, acknowledging and celebrating their contributions” said Joss Ifan Brightwell.

Our agency model is not standard, we don't have rigid processes, we don't want them. If it's AI today, or humans tomorrow, we’ll do that to get closer to the magic that the industry so desperately craves nowadays. If it means breaking away from the conventional to find new territories, we go there. Without angst, without fear, without worries of being vulnerable to our clients and partners. We want to explore our imagination to the extent that we create the new, the now, and the future. IMAGINE is about giving the middle finger to the current status quo, and making something that you will remember, be moved by and that ultimately triggers your own imagination. 

IMAGINE is currently hiring in the following roles:

• senior creative producer

• creative business development

Find out more here. 

JOSS IFAN BRIGHTWELL (ex MassiveMusic/Songtradr, 750mph)

Joss Ifan Brightwell is the creative production director and a managing partner at IMAGINE. With a background at some of London's top music and sound companies, in addition to experience as an independent music supervisor, Joss relocated to Germany in 2019 and led the production team at MassiveMusic Berlin for over three years. Joss’s musical prowess and industry leading expertise in production has been instrumental in shaping IMAGINE’s reputation for creative excellence within the music for advertising industry.

VIVIKA ZUSKE (ex MassiveMusic/Songtradr, Extreme Music)

As IMAGINE’s music and operations director and a managing partner, Vivika Zuske merges deep musical knowledge with operational prowess. Her career in the music industry, highlighted by extensive experience in synchronisation and rights management as well as working in labels such as Warner Music and Universal Music, has equipped her with a unique ability to navigate the complexities of music licensing and production. Vivika's strategic vision ensures the seamless execution of projects.

VALENTIN KEIL (ex MassiveMusic/Songtradr, WESOUND)

Valentin Keil, client experience director and a managing partner at IMAGINE, specialises in cultivating meaningful relationships with brands and agencies alike. His background in strategic brand management and partnership development, combined with a keen sense for emerging trends in the advertising world, positions him as a key player in driving growth and innovation in the music branding space.

LIAM KLEMENC (ex MassiveMusic/Songtradr, Anomaly)

Liam Klemenc joins IMAGINE as a creative director, bringing a wealth of experience from his roles at Anomaly and MassiveMusic, where he successfully managed high-profile campaigns for clients like NIVEA, Google, and OTTO. Liam's exceptional talent for blending music with compelling narratives makes him a pivotal asset in realising IMAGINE’s vision of brand storytelling.

NEELE HIRSCHSON (ex MassiveMusic/Songtradr)

Admin and financial director and a managing partner at IMAGINE, Neele’s expertise in finance management and strategic planning underpins the agency's operational and financial health. Neele brings a wealth of knowledge in budgeting, financial forecasting, and rights management. Her acumen for financial stewardship ensures IMAGINE remains on a path of sustainable growth and innovation.

SHAI CALEB HIRSCHSON (ex MassiveMusic/Songtradr, nhb studios)

Executive creative director and a managing partner. Originating from Cape Town with a storied history in the music and advertising industries, Shai's entrepreneurial spirit and creative prowess seeks to establish IMAGINE as a ground breaking creative agency powered by music. His leadership is defined by a commitment to merging art with commerce, utilising music to forge unforgettable brand identities and narratives that resonate globally.