5 Questions with Publicis Groupe CEE Lioness: Dagmara Gadomska

As part of Publicis Groupe Central & Eastern Europe (CEE)’s 'Embrace Gender Equity' initiative that was launched during this year’s International Women’s Day on March 8th, the company created a special series 'Publicis Groupe CEE Lioness' designed to showcase and spotlight its many female talent and leaders across the CEE region, celebrating their experiences and important roles they play within the company. Get to know the Publicis Groupe CEE Lionesses through their stories in this series.

1. Can you share your story with us, how have you gotten to where you are today in your profession?

Dagmara> 2O years ago during the summer preceding my penultimate year of studies in Finance and Banking, I secured an internship at a bank. It turned out to be so mundane and formal that it inspired me to seek another path. Six months later, I embarked on an internship at Publicis where I still am today.

I consistently volunteered for briefs and clients that 'no one wanted,' and most of the time, I managed to substantially enhance their growth. Collaborating as a trio alongside my creative director, Dagmara Witek Kuśmider, and strategy director, Adam Miecznikowski, we successfully transformed PG Health from a local brand into a European Hub (Greater Europe and CEE), serving four brands across 23 countries for several years. Our designed markets included Poland, Germany, and Italy.

During one of my annual career reviews, I mentioned my ambition to eventually become a general manager. Obviously, it was a moonshot, but sometime later, an opportunity arose. I was promoted to the position of Managing Partner alongside Kamila Roszkowska. We learnt quickly that internal promotions are not easy transitions. While we received a lot of support, I won't deny that there were also some negative feedback and resistance. Over time, we were able to assemble a strong, passionate team that shares similar values, caring for one another and consistently deliver excellent, creative work.

2. What has been your most memorable experience in your career so far?

Dagmara> I cherish challenges and thrive on new opportunities, yet I hold a deep commitment to delivery and making things happen. This is how I perceive my role at the agency. Some of my most memorable moments are those when people approach me and say, 'Listen Daga, I have an idea, could you please help me bring it to life?'

One of these pivotal moments occurred with Dagmara Witek-Kuśmider's idea, which marked the inception of the K.I.D.S. Foundation, a Club of Innovators in Children's Hospitals, and then the strategic partnership between Publicis Worldwide and K.I.D.S. The initiative brought together the expertise of major corporations with the innovation of start-ups, allowing both employees and clients to engage in competency-based volunteering, supporting the Foundation with their knowledge and dedicated time. Our daily agency work supports the K.I.D.S. Foundation in communication efforts, and it eventually led us to the win at Cannes Lions in 2022 with one of the projects called 'Little Headhunters.'

On another occasion, an ingenious idea emerged: men prioritize the care of their cars over their health. This insight ignited the creation of Sanofi's 'Liver Check' campaign against Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). The campaign has already garnered international recognition, clinching 12 awards worldwide and earning a spot on the Cannes Lions shortlist. To name a few: LIA (London International Awards) in Health & Wellness, Education and Services (Bronze), Golden Drum in Excellence In Media (Silver), Out Of Home (Bronze), Health & Wellness (Bronze), and Creative Use Of Media (Bronze). In addition, Publicis Worldwide Poland achieved a top-ten rank at Golden Drum 2023.

There is also one recent initiative from Joanna Karwowska Koza, the Strategy & Growth Director - TrendLab. This is a strategic product offered to clients as a workshop paired with a unique report. The report is meticulously crafted through in-depth data analysis, cultural content assessment, analysis of social media trends, and attentive social listening. Following the success of the initial report on the 'Silver Revolution,' Publicis' strategists and researchers are currently working on the next edition, with a focus on the expansive category of 'Food Lovers'.

These and many other remarkable moments started with a sentence “I have an idea” and they are important not just for me but for our whole agency - they push us forward. It’s amazing is because it is a two-way street; when I have a spark of inspiration, my team is always ready to support me.

3. Similarly, what was the most challenging moment and how did you overcome it?

Dagmara> Making the decision to have three kids while pursuing my career, especially with my husband who is also committed to his own professional ambition, was a significant choice. On the professional front, it was relatively smooth, and I can attest that I received promotions each time I returned from my maternity leave. Managing three kids with a five-year age gap is undoubtedly challenging, but it becomes more manageable when your partner is involved and with the help of a nanny, especially when the kids got sick (and they did all the time. Our kids’ paediatrician told me that falling sick eight - 12 times a year is a norm for toddler and preschooler, and I had to deal with it).

Although this may appear peculiar, nevertheless, the real pressure I struggled with, was the concept of having 'me-time'. The reality is that you can't have it all, especially when your kids are young. At some point, I gave up and agreed with my husband that the time spent with one kid is our version of "me-time",

A while later, I read Michelle Obama's book, 'Becoming', and I realised that I was right – it's not worth it. It's doable, but it comes with sacrifices and the potential for sleep deprivation. You can create some me-time by waking up at 4am to hit the gym, as she did, or by staying up until 2am to carve out some alone time, as I did. Alternatively, you can simply wait a while. As the kids grow older, we all gradually regain our 'me-time'.

There's also a practical concept called 'time confetti,' introduced by Dr. Meg Arroll. This idea underscores the importance of seizing brief moments throughout the day to reconnect with your body, your senses, and with nature. Surprisingly, children can help with this, as they are naturally skilled at capturing and fully experiencing these moments.

4. What are your most important tips on achieving success?

Dagmara> It is a journey - have fun along the way. While this is business, we're in the creative industry, and clients often appreciate a touch of entertainment.

Remembering that success requires hard work and persistence. Let's not have any illusions – we're only as good as our last project.

When building your team or choosing your partners, do so wisely. It's not a solo endeavour, whether at work or at home.

Be brave, but always be prepared. Know your stakeholders, understand your wins and risks, be aware of your critical path and have a backup plan. Sometimes it's about just getting things done, because 'done' is often better than 'perfect', and seeking forgiveness can cause less harm than waiting for everyone's permission.

5. What are your tips for younger female talent embarking on the journey you’re already on?

Dagmara> Just say it. Don't wait. Write down your moonshots and growth plans, and then take action to make them a reality. It's always better to create your own luck.

Ask for help and offer help in return.

Date your husband/partner at least once a week. Strike a deal with your kids – let them know that on specific nights (like Wednesdays), it's your date night, and they should stay in bed while you enjoy some tea/wine and snacks while watching Netflix. (yes, “the date in the living room” has been my reality for many years). In return, you or your partner can spend some one-on-one time with the kids as well. They will understand and everyone will love it.