Agency people of the year powered by MAKSZ
Proudly sponsored by:
Adlook
RTL
Diageo
In cooperation with:
Bo Live
Radio Cafe
What’s New
in Agency People of the Year 2025

Building on last year’s experience, we’re introducing two key updates to make the competition even more inclusive and dynamic:

  • Nomination System – To kick-start the nominations, we’re launching a new feature that allows anyone to recommend their industry peers for the Agency People of the Year award. This way, outstanding professionals who might not nominate themselves also have a chance to shine.
  • Tiered Entry Fees – This year, entry fees are split into managerial and non-managerial categories to encourage participation from professionals at every level of expertise.

Agency People of the Year continues to celebrate outstanding talent across the marketing communications industry – from creatives and strategists to media experts, client service professionals, and senior leaders.

Image
Introducing
the Agency People of the Year

Since its establishment, the Association of Hungarian Communication Agencies (MAKSZ) has been working for the operation and representation of Hungarian media and non-media agencies. The next milestone in this tradition was the launch of the Campaign Agency People of the Year, which was held for the first time in 2024.

The Agency People of the Year was born under the umbrella of the internationally recognised Campaign magazine, and as a separate category within the magazine's Agency of the Year competition. Like the latter, it is not a list - it was never intended to be a list. All of these serve as a platform for media and non-media agencies to give the sector's most outstanding professionals the opportunity to compete. However, only one winner will emerge from each category.

The awards ceremony will take place in February 2026, where the best in the sector will be rewarded for their creativity, professionalism and innovation.

Agency People of the Year is not born BECAUSE OF agency professionals – but built FOR agency professionals.

Image
Image
A global
story


The story of the Agency People of the Year goes back to the Campaign Agency of the Year competition, which is well known internationally. For many years, the platform, created by a popular magazine representing the marketing, advertising and media communities around the world, has rewarded the best agencies in the creative industry. In 2024 Hungary joined this prestigious community, but taking the basics a step further, Agency People of the Year will reward the professionals who create value in agencies on a daily basis.

This not only sends an important message to the domestic professional community, but also provides an opportunity for the winners to gain international recognition. On this basis, the categories and judging criteria of the competition have been developed in line with international standards.

Agency People of the Year is not just an awards event. It is a platform where people who are individually turning around and reshaping the industry can get the recognition they deserve. People who add value to communications every day through their creative and innovative work.

Image
Categories

1 platform. 21 winners.

The Agency People of the Year invites entries in different categories to ensure that every professional finds the most suitable opportunity. There will be a choice of categories to evaluate both leader and non-leader sub-categories, if a sufficient number of entries are received.

Download Application Insights

Image
Recognizes the CEO demonstrating exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and significant achievements in agency growth and innovation. This award highlights their role in driving the agency’s success and market influence.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Honors the individual responsible for overseeing and optimizing agency operations. This category acknowledges their strategic management skills, efficiency improvements, and contributions to overall agency performance.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Celebrates the leader or team that has driven remarkable business growth through innovative strategies. This award focuses on achievements in client acquisition, retention, and overall business development.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Acknowledges the producer who excels in managing and delivering outstanding creative projects. This category highlights their ability to ensure project success through exceptional organization, client satisfaction, and production quality.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Rewards a creative professional whose work has significantly impacted campaigns through innovation and originality. This award recognizes their ability to deliver groundbreaking ideas that drive client success and engagement.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Recognizes excellence in event management, highlighting successful planning and execution of events. This category focuses on their ability to manage logistics, enhance attendee experience, and achieve client goals.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Celebrates the individual responsible for designing exceptional event concepts that engage and inspire audiences. This award acknowledges their creativity, originality, and ability to deliver memorable event experiences.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Recognizes an individual who excels in developing effective brand and communication strategies that drive client success. This award highlights their ability to analyze market trends, consumer behavior, cultural context, and craft insightful, original and evidence based strategic plans.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Honors a professional who provides exceptional service and support to clients in non-media sectors. This category acknowledges their dedication to client satisfaction, problem-solving skills, and ability to maintain strong client relationships.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Celebrates a professional who excels in managing client relationships within the media industry. This award focuses on their expertise in media planning, buying, and delivering outstanding client service.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Acknowledges an individual who demonstrates excellence in developing and implementing media plans. This category highlights their ability to strategically allocate media budgets and optimize campaign performance.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Honors a professional who excels in crafting comprehensive media strategies that achieve client objectives. This award recognizes their deep understanding of media landscapes and ability to integrate various media channels effectively.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Recognizes an expert who specializes in a particular area of media, such as digital, print, or broadcast. This category celebrates their in-depth knowledge and significant contributions to media campaigns.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Celebrates a professional with exceptional skills in digital marketing and technology. This award highlights their ability to leverage digital platforms, tools, and strategies to drive client success.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Acknowledges an individual who excels in purchasing digital media space and managing digital ad campaigns. This category focuses on their negotiation skills, market knowledge, and ability to achieve optimal ad placements.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Honors a professional who demonstrates expertise in managing and executing social media strategies. This award recognizes their ability to engage audiences, create compelling content, and drive social media performance.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Recognizes an individual who excels in creating engaging and effective PR and social media content. This category highlights their creativity, storytelling ability, and impact on brand visibility and engagement.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Celebrates a professional who excels in financial management within the agency. This award focuses on their ability to manage budgets, financial planning, and contribute to the agency's financial health.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Honors a dedicated front office professional who provides exceptional administrative support. This category acknowledges their organizational skills, efficiency, and contribution to the smooth operation of the agency.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Recognizes an individual who excels in managing and developing agency talent. This award highlights their ability to attract, retain, and nurture top talent, contributing to the agency’s success.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

Celebrates a person or team that has made significant contributions to social causes through their work. This award acknowledges their dedication to creating positive social change and impact within the community.

Please note that a category will only be evaluated if at least 3 entries are received.
Where sufficient applications are submitted, subcategories may be opened within each category based on experience level. In leadership categories, this means separate evaluations may be held for directors, C-suite or mid-management applicants, while in non-leadership categories, dedicated categories may be introduced for associates, experts or juniors etc. To open a subcategory, a minimum of 3 entries per level is required. If this threshold is not met, entries will be assessed together in a combined evaluation.

TIMING
early bird:
October 10 – December 7, 2025

normal:
December 8, 2025 - January 9, 2026

End of nomination period:
December 15, 2025

last minute:
January 10–13, 2026

online judging:
January 14–23, 2026
final judging:
January 30, 2026

shortlist announcement:
January 26, 2026

Awarding Gala:
10th February 2026, Publicis House
ENTRY FEES
MAKSZ MEMBER AGENCIES:
early bird: 49,000 HUF
non-managerial: 19,000 HUF

normal: 100,000 HUF
non-managerial: 25,000 HUF

NON-MAKSZ MEMBER AGENCIES:
early bird: 75,000 HUF
non-managerial: 29,000 HUF

normal: 150,000 HUF
non-managerial: 35,000 HUF

LAST MINUTE ENTRY FEE:
STANDARD FEE + 50%
CONTACT
DIÁNA CSIZMADIA
TEL: 0036 30 826 5586
E-MAIL: csizmadia.diana@maksz.com

Jury

Winners
Head of Agency of the Year (CEO) / managerial
Agency Operations Head of the Year / managerial
Growth Leader/Team of the Year / managerial
Agency Producer of the Year / managerial
Creative of the Year / managerial
Event Manager of the Year / non-managerial
Non-Media Client Service Person of the Year / managerial
Non-Media Client Service Person of the Year / non-managerial
Media Client Service Person of the Year / managerial
Media Client Service Person of the Year / non-managerial
Media Planner of the Year / non-managerial
Media Strategist of the Year / managerial
Media Specialist of the Year / managerial
Digital Expert of the Year / non-managerial
Digital Expert of the Year / managerial
Digital Buyer of the Year / non-managerial
Social Media Expert of the Year / managerial
Front Office Person of the Year / non-managerial
Talent Manager of the Year / managerial
Social Impact Person/Team of the Year / non-managerial
Shortlist
Andrea Toth
CEO / Kastner
Dániel Kövesházi
CEO / Mito
László Biró
CEO / Mediator
László Mező
CEO /
Katalin Spielmann
COO / IPG Mediabrands
Orsolya Szabó
Business Unit Director, Partner / Progressive Reklámügynökség
Dorottya Tari - Patricia Zsiga
Senior Communications Planner - Communications Manager / Publicis Groupe Hungary
Dóra Semsei-Kiricsi - Péter Hajdu
Business Development Director - Innovation Lead / UM Hungary
Éva Virág
Account Director / ACG
György Tóth
PR & Strategy Director / Mediator
Nóra Lakoczky
Business Unit Director / WPP Media
Csilla Tolnai
Traffic Manager / Positive Adamsky
Gergely Kisfali
AI Content & Production Lead / Mito
Zsuzsanna Döbrei
International Production Lead / Kastner Budapest
Dániel Csirke
Executive Creative Director / Mediator
Gergely Horváth
Creative Lead / ACG
Peter Bodogán
Head Of Art / Positive Adamsky
Zoltán Mendrei
Head Of Art / WPP Media
Adrienn Szücs
Event Manager / ACG
Bernadett Tóth-Robotka
Senior Event Manager / BO Agency
Boglár Sütöri
Event Manager / BO Agency
Bence Dankó
Lead Strategy Planner / Mediator
Márton Nagy
Group Chief Creative Officer / Positive Adamsky
Managerial
Annamária Gula
Social Media Group Head / Positive Adamsky
Fanni Gödrei
Client Service Group Head / Positive Adamsky
Nikolett Dóczy-Lanczkor
Client Service Group Head / Positive Adamsky
NON-Managerial
Andrea Marchis
Account Manager / ACG
Katalin Zimre
Senior Account Manager / ACG
Laura Sebess-Darabos
Account Manager / WPP Media
Zsófia Stella Fabó
Senior Account Manager / WPP Media
Managerial
István Tóth
Account Director / WPP Media/EMC
Réka Köves
Account Manager / WPP Media/EMC
Tünde Horváth
Account Manager / WPP Media/EMC
NON-Managerial
Anna Erőss-Somodi
Account Manager / WPP Media/EMC
Ádám Uhlár
Account Manager / WPP Media/EMC
Dávid Farkas
Communication Manager / WPP Media/WM
Júlia Kassai
Account Supervisor / WPP Media/EMC
Nárcisz Szakáll
Junior Media Planner & Buyer / WPP Media/EMC
Barbara Bakony
Senior Media Planner / Publicis Groupe Hungary
Noémi Géringer
Communications Manager / Publicis Groupe Hungary
Zsolt Németh
Media Planner / WPP Media/WM
Bernadett Tarr
Media Strategist / IPG Mediabrands
Eszter Hidvégi
Communication Manager / Client Lead / WPP Media/WM
Helga Major
Media Strategy Director / Publicis Groupe Hungary
Nikolett Kis-Somhegyi
Implementation Manager / WPP Media
Orsolya Várkonyi
Account Manager / WPP Media/EMC
Managerial
Bianka Gulyas
Digital Director / WPP Media
Gergely Háda
Head Of Digital Analytics / WPP Media
Lilla Szöllősi
Performance Media Account Lead / Publicis Groupe Hungary
Luca Steff
Head Of Programmatic / WPP Media
Noémi Molnár
Performance Media Account Manager / Publicis Groupe Hungary
NON-Managerial
András Knódel
Senior Digital Lead / UM Hungary
Boglárka Renáta Baróthy
Data Engineer / WPP Media
Kristóf Geiger
Strategic Media Planner / WPP Media/WM
Luca Szombati
Senior Programmatic Trader / WPP Media
Zsófia Balázs
Senior Biddable Activation Manager / UM Hungary
Bálint Hadacs
Chief Operating & Social-First Strategy Officer / The Deep Creative Collective
Kristóf Kónya
Senior Performance Media Specialist / Publicis Groupe Hungary
Zorka Pál
Head Of Content / feat.
Ágnes Fáskerti
Office Manager / WPP Media
Dávid Madarász
Senior Talent Business Partner / Publicis Groupe Hungary
Judit Járadi - Virág Papp - Korinna Tánczos
Project Leader - Volunteer - Head of art & curator / Kastner Budapest
Image
Reliability

The Agency People of the Year is committed to transparent and accurate results. To this end, MediaSense, the official audit partner of the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, is responsible for the auditing. MediaSense is responsible for processing and verifying all data during the competition.

The competition will take place in several stages: online judging, in-person evaluation and finally the publication of the results. MediaSense also scrutinises the scoresheets of all judges and the raw data provided by the organisers - ensuring that every step of the process is compliant.

All this careful checking ensures that the final results are objective and substantiated, adding to the credibility of the competition.