Ajaz Ahmed's Studio Establishes Presence in the United States by Hoisting a Flag
In the ever-evolving world of advertising, Studio.One stands out as a fresh and innovative agency founded by Ajaz Ahmed, former CEO of AKQA. Launched in May 2025, this forward-thinking agency is focused on brand identity, experience design, and digital product development, with a mission to offer speed, clarity, and groundbreaking imagination[1].
Unlike traditional agencies, Studio.One operates with a nimble, founder-driven model that emphasizes agility, flexibility, and a flat organizational structure. With no physical office and no hierarchy, the agency has adopted a decentralized remote work approach across multiple U.S. states, rather than a traditional HQ[1]. The U.S. team, currently consisting of 12 full-time staffers working remotely across eight states, is expected to grow to about 50 in the next year[1][2].
The agency's structure reflects a break from traditional agency models, aiming to prioritize speed, client impact, and a culture of creativity freed from corporate constraints. The team composition is a mix of seasoned creatives and strategists with digital experience, united around a shared spirit[1]. This culture, driven by a collective belief in doing things differently, is a key factor in Studio.One's ability to deliver exceptional results for clients[1].
Studio.One's pipeline is described as "massive right now," positioning the agency as a direct rival to the slow, bureaucratic, large agencies[1]. The agency's growth is supported by UK private equity firm Atrium Group, which has been instrumental in connecting Studio.One to emerging AI-led businesses as prospective clients[1].
The U.S. team meets for "intentional gatherings" in cities like D.C., New York, and San Francisco[1]. Ajaz Ahmed, who launched Studio.One after resigning from WPP, where he worked for three decades as CEO of AKQA, described the team as a group of extraordinary people united around a shared spirit, elevating each other to increase what’s possible for clients[1].
Studio.One's team previously led work for clients like Delta, UPS, Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and Nike, and they are currently hiring for roles across all three job levels: partner, director, and creator[1]. As Studio.One continues to grow and challenge traditional agency models, it is poised to make a significant impact in the industry.
References: 1. Studio.One Press Release 2. Interview with Ajaz Ahmed
- Studio.One's innovative business model, rooted in defi and technology, is disrupting the traditional finance sector, providing an interesting alternative for entrepreneurship in advertising.
- The agency's focus on brand identity, experience design, and digital product development, as mentioned in the press release, demonstrates a clear interest in the future of business.
- With a streamlined, remote workforce and a flat organizational structure, Studio.One's unique approach to entrepreneurship could potentially reshape the advertising landscape, effectively competing with larger, more bureaucratic agencies.
