Top 17 CEOs of Influencer Marketing Agencies in London

The theater was packed, the lights dimmed, and 100 of London’s most influential Black creators took their seats. But this wasn’t just another movie night—it was a masterclass in influencer marketing. In 2023, Universal Pictures teamed up with Vamp, a powerhouse influencer agency, to promote Girls Trip in a way that no billboard or trailer ever could. Instead of traditional ads, they invited some of the biggest voices in Black British culture—Michaela Coel, Ella Eyre, and dozens more—to an exclusive screening.

The result? A social media explosion that turned a film premiere into a movement, proving that representation and community-driven marketing could outshine even the biggest studio budgets.

Behind campaigns like these are the strategists, the visionaries—the CEOs of London’s top influencer marketing agencies. They are the architects of digital influence, designing campaigns that don’t just sell, but spark conversations, shift cultures, and make brands unforgettable.

So who are the power players shaping the future of influencer marketing in London? Let’s meet the CEOs behind the city’s most game-changing campaigns.


Top 17 CEOs of Influencer Marketing Companies in London

Behind every viral campaign and game-changing brand collaboration, there’s a strategic mind pulling the strings. London’s influencer marketing CEOs are not just executives—they’re pioneers reshaping digital advertising, building agencies that turn content into commerce.

1. Arron Shepherd

Arron Shepherd CEO The Goat Agency

When it comes to influencer marketing, few names carry as much weight as Arron Shepherd. As the co-founder and CEO of The Goat Agency, he has been at the forefront of revolutionizing how brands connect with consumers through social media. Since launching in 2015 with Harry Hugo and Nick Cooke, The Goat Agency has grown into a global powerhouse, working with industry giants like UEFA, Unilever, and Tesco.

Under Arron’s leadership, Goat wasn’t just another agency in the influencer space—it was a disruptor. By 2019, Adweek had already named it the 4th fastest-growing agency in the world, a testament to its data-driven, social-first approach. The agency’s success didn’t go unnoticed, leading to a full acquisition by WPP in 2023, integrating it into GroupM to amplify its influence on a global scale.

But Arron’s expertise goes beyond just influencer marketing. Before Goat, he co-founded Sportlobster, a social media platform that secured collaborations with Cristiano Ronaldo and the NBA. Even earlier, at just 23 years old, he made waves as Global Director of Business Development at The First Group, skyrocketing EMEA revenues from $25M to $350M in three years.

Beyond business, Arron is also an active investor and advisor in high-growth ventures like Mixtons and Passentry, proving that his entrepreneurial acumen isn’t limited to just one industry.


2. Gilad Bechar

Gilad Bechar CEO at Moburst

Before brands were fully embracing mobile-first marketing, Gilad Bechar was already pioneering it. In 2013, he founded Moburst, a digital agency that has since helped over 700 brands, including Google, YouTube, Uber, and Samsung. His ability to turn complex marketing challenges into strategic wins has positioned Moburst as a leader in the space, earning it global recognition—including a feature on the television show World’s Greatest! for its groundbreaking approach to digital growth.

Bechar isn’t just scaling Moburst; he’s expanding its capabilities. Through key acquisitions, such as digital development firm Layer, he has ensured the agency stays ahead in app and web development, solidifying its reputation as a full-service digital powerhouse.

Beyond Moburst, Bechar plays a key role in shaping the future of digital marketing. As a mentor at Microsoft Accelerator, he guides startups through an ever-evolving landscape, and as a thought leader, he frequently shares insights on platforms like VentureBeat, helping businesses navigate the challenges of mobile-first engagement.


3. Adrian Kotowski

Adrian Kotowski CEO Audiencly

Influencer marketing wasn’t always the multi-billion-dollar industry it is today—but Adrian Kotowski saw its potential early on. At just 15, he launched his first business, a gaming item website, where he quickly realized the power of digital creators in driving engagement. That early insight became the foundation for Audiencly, the agency he co-founded in 2018, which has since grown into a global leader in influencer marketing, with over 200 clients, 10,000 influencers, and 1.5 billion+ impressions across multiple industries.

Originally specializing in gaming, Audiencly has since expanded into lifestyle and entertainment marketing, running major campaigns for brands like AirUp, Genshin Impact, and Disney. The agency’s rapid success led to its €9.34 million acquisition by Flexion Mobile in 2022, solidifying its position in the global market. Despite the acquisition, Kotowski remains at the helm, continuing to innovate and push the industry forward.

With offices in London, Hamburg, Düsseldorf, and Budapest, Kotowski’s leadership has transformed Audiencly into more than just an agency—it’s a data-driven platform for authentic brand-influencer partnerships.


4. Baxter Box & Amber Venz Box

A former fashion blogger and jewelry designer saw that creators were driving sales for brands but had no direct way to monetize their influence. That realization led Amber Venz Box to co-found LTK (formerly rewardStyle and LIKEtoKNOW.it) in 2011 with her husband, Baxter Box. Together, they’ve turned LTK into a global e-commerce powerhouse, helping influencers generate billions in sales while enabling brands to tap into creator-led commerce.

Amber’s expertise in content and branding combined with Baxter’s background in tech and investment created the perfect synergy for scaling LTK. Under their leadership, the platform now partners with over 8,000 retailers and millions of influencers, cementing its role as a cornerstone of the creator economy. In 2021, Forbes estimated Amber’s net worth at $315 million, proving just how influential LTK has become.

Named among Goldman Sachs’ Most Exceptional Entrepreneurs of 2021, Baxter and Amber’s approach has transformed influencer marketing from a trend into a scalable, data-driven industry. Today, LTK is one of the most powerful platforms for brands and creators alike, and with these two visionaries leading the charge, the future of influencer commerce is only getting bigger.


5. Mike Craddock

Not every CEO in influencer marketing started in a boardroom—Mike Craddock built his career from behind a gaming screen. A former professional gamer and YouTuber, he dropped out of college at 17 to pursue esports full-time, amassing 55 million views and 500,000 followers on YouTube. This firsthand experience with digital content led him to co-found Kairos Media, now rebranded as NewGen, a social-first agency shaping how brands engage Gen Z and millennial audiences.

Craddock’s approach isn’t about traditional advertising—it’s about authenticity, community, and culture. Under his leadership, NewGen has become the go-to agency for brands like Pepsi, Samsung, and KSI, crafting influencer-led campaigns that resonate beyond just views and clicks.

Active on X (@FearCrads), Craddock continues to be a key figure in gaming and marketing, sharing insights on content creation and the future of digital engagement. With offices in London, Manchester, and New York, NewGen isn’t just an agency—it’s an ecosystem designed for the next generation of digital storytelling.


6. Iñigo Rivero & Rohan Midha

Rohan Midha CEO

When it comes to TikTok-first influencer marketing, few agencies match the expertise of House of Marketers—and at the helm are Iñigo Rivero and Rohan Midha, two industry leaders who have mastered the art of driving brand success through short-form content.

Iñigo, a former TikTok EMEA strategist, was one of the first employees at TikTok in Europe, helping over 300 brands scale on the platform. His insider knowledge of TikTok's algorithms, trends, and user behavior makes him a go-to expert for brands looking to tap into Gen Z and Millennial audiences.

Rohan, a proven leader in influencer marketing, previously co-founded PMYB, where he developed the Chromo-Influencer™ selection process, a data-driven method for identifying high-performing influencers. His experience building ROI-driven influencer strategies for brands like Apple, Vodafone, and Boohoo brings a scientific approach to influencer marketing at House of Marketers.

Together, they have transformed House of Marketers into a TikTok powerhouse, crafting viral campaigns for global brands and doubling EBITDA year after year. Recognized in major publications like The Washington Post and Adweek, and featured as an expert on Sky News and BBC, Rohan’s industry insights further solidify the agency’s reputation as a leader in the space.

With TikTok still underpriced compared to other platforms, House of Marketers is helping brands capitalize before the market becomes oversaturated. Under Iñigo and Rohan’s leadership, the agency isn’t just keeping up with TikTok trends—it’s setting them.


7. Majid Bahi

Majid Bahi CEO Socially Powerful

Majid Bahi didn’t take the conventional route into influencer marketing—his career started in financial services advisory at EY. But it was his analytical mindset and strategic thinking that led him to co-found Socially Powerful, now one of the world’s leading influencer marketing and social-first agencies.

Since launching in 2017, Socially Powerful has scaled rapidly, working with global giants like Amazon, L’Oréal, and TikTok, expanding across the UK, US, Europe, and the Middle East, and generating £13 million in turnover. His leadership was recognized in 2023 when he was named "Influencer Marketing CEO of the Year" by CEO Monthly.

Beyond running campaigns, Bahi is shaping the creator economy’s future, often speaking on how influencer marketing is disrupting traditional advertising budgets.


8. Daniel Gilbert

Brainlabs started as a one-man operation in Daniel Gilbert’s parents’ attic—now, it’s a global media powerhouse with 800+ employees. Known for his expertise in performance marketing and automation, Gilbert has built one of the fastest-growing data-driven agencies, helping brands scale with precision and efficiency.

In 2022, Brainlabs acquired Fanbytes, a major influencer marketing agency, reinforcing its commitment to creator-led advertising. With Gilbert at the helm, Brainlabs continues to merge performance marketing with influencer storytelling, delivering results-driven digital campaigns.

Ranked #1 on PPC Hero’s Most Influential PPC Experts list, Gilbert is also a frequent contributor to Campaign, Econsultancy, and SearchEngineLand, providing thought leadership on AI, automation, and the future of media buying. His insights on X (@dangilbertppc) keep industry professionals tuned into the latest marketing trends.

With Brainlabs consistently earning "Agency of the Year" titles, Gilbert’s approach to testing, optimization, and innovation has made him one of the most influential figures in digital marketing today.


9. Victor Knaap

Victor Knaap CEO Monks

Before leading one of the world’s top digital agencies, Victor Knaap was navigating the open sea. A former professional sailor, his journey took an unexpected turn when he joined Monks (formerly IMA) in 2003, initially as a Sales Monk before stepping into the role of CEO in 2004.

Under his leadership, Monks has grown into a global creative force, with 8,500+ employees worldwide, earning 131 Cannes Lions and 250+ FWAs for its groundbreaking work in content, data, and media innovation. His 2019 merger with influencer agency IMA further strengthened Monks’ commitment to creator-led marketing.

Now operating under S4 Capital, Knaap’s vision is clear: disrupt the traditional agency model and redefine how brands engage in the digital world.


10. Sam Foroozesh

When Cure Media launched in 2014, influencer marketing was still in its infancy—social media was evolving, and brands were just beginning to see the potential of creators in driving consumer behavior. Sam Foroozesh recognized this shift early, and under his leadership, Cure Media has grown into one of Europe’s leading influencer marketing agencies, specializing in fashion, beauty, home, and FMCG. With over 40,000 campaigns executed for industry giants like L'Oréal, Sephora, and Kappahl, Cure Media has set the standard for social-first marketing that delivers real commercial impact.

Foroozesh’s strategic mindset and data-driven approach have propelled Cure Media to global recognition, earning titles like "Agency of the Year 2022" at the Influencer Marketing Summit and multiple wins at the Global Influencer Marketing Awards. Beyond accolades, he has also overseen Cure Media’s impressive financial growth, with revenue jumping from 103.7 million SEK to 122.3 million SEK in 2022, maintaining a 23% operating margin.

Looking ahead, Cure Media’s expansion into Berlin is just one step in Foroozesh’s broader vision for international growth. With influencer marketing evolving at a rapid pace, his expertise in identifying trends and adapting strategies ensures that Cure Media remains at the forefront of Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube marketing.


11. Benjamin B. Kaplan

Some marketers build campaigns—Benjamin B. Kaplan builds movements. As the Founder and CEO of TOP Agency, Kaplan has taken a data-first approach to marketing, creating 12 specialized agencies that provide high-impact solutions across various digital disciplines, including influencer marketing, performance media, and brand storytelling.

Kaplan’s analytical edge comes from his Harvard education in economics, which shaped his expertise in consumer behavior, branding, and digital strategy. Over the years, he has become one of the most recognized marketing voices globally, appearing on 5,000+ TV and radio shows, including Oprah and Good Morning America, sharing his insights on PR, viral marketing, and the evolution of digital influence.

At TOP Agency, Kaplan developed the Test, Optimize, and Perform (TOP) methodology, ensuring that every influencer campaign is backed by data. He believes in scaling authentic engagement, rejecting vanity metrics in favor of conversion-driven influencer partnerships. His 2022 webinar on influencer marketing success outlined ten key principles that brands need to follow—focusing on measurable impact and long-term relationships over one-off content bursts.

Beyond his leadership at TOP Agency, Kaplan is also a key figure in marketing thought leadership, hosting the TOP CMO podcast, where he interviews industry executives on digital trends, AI, and content strategy. His work has made TOP Agency one of the most sought-after firms for brands looking to dominate digital influence with precision and scale.


12. Anthony Delgado

Tech entrepreneur, digital strategist, and educator—Anthony Delgado’s influence extends far beyond marketing. As the Founder and CEO of Disrupt, he has built a global movement that bridges digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and influencer marketing, empowering brands and individuals to turn ideas into action.

Unlike many in the marketing world, Delgado’s background isn’t in agencies or brand campaigns—it’s in technology and software development. A seasoned coder and hackathon champion, he has won competitions hosted by Google, IBM, Intel, Facebook, and Microsoft, using his tech expertise to develop cutting-edge digital solutions.

However, Delgado’s work isn’t just about business—it’s about impact. After Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, he relocated to the island and launched Disrupt Puerto Rico, a tech-driven initiative to revitalize the economy through innovation and digital entrepreneurship. He also co-founded Latino Wall Street, the largest financial education movement in Latin America, helping thousands gain access to wealth-building opportunities.

His podcast, “Disrupt With Tony Delgado”, serves as a platform for thought leadership, featuring unfiltered conversations with industry leaders, influencers, and entrepreneurs. With a strong social media presence, Delgado continues to provide real-time insights on the creator economy, digital disruption, and brand-building in the modern world.


13. Mike Mathieson

Few names in brand entertainment and influencer marketing carry the weight of Mike Mathieson. With decades of experience in brand storytelling, PR, and digital marketing, he has been a driving force in shaping the way brands engage audiences in the creator economy.

Mathieson’s career took off when he founded Cake, an agency that revolutionized brand entertainment, experiential marketing, and influencer campaigns. Cake’s rapid success led to its acquisition by Havas in 2008, solidifying Mathieson’s reputation as a pioneer in integrated marketing. But he didn’t stop there. As Executive Chairman of Buttermilk, he has expanded the agency’s influence globally, opening offices in London, Miami, and Dubai to help brands craft social-first, creator-led campaigns.

His expertise isn’t just in executing campaigns—it’s in identifying cultural shifts before they happen. At Buttermilk, he ensures that brands don’t just create content, but rather integrate seamlessly into digital communities, making their presence feel authentic and influential.

Beyond his work with Buttermilk, Mathieson is a thought leader in agency growth and brand innovation, often speaking on scaling marketing teams without sacrificing creativity. His ability to merge entertainment with strategic brand partnerships has made him a trusted voice in digital influence.


14. Martyn Sibley

Martyn Sibley CEO Purple Goat

For decades, advertising has struggled with authentic representation, often treating inclusivity as an afterthought rather than a core strategy. Martyn Sibley is changing that narrative. As the co-founder and CEO of Purple Goat, the world’s first disability-led marketing agency, Sibley has turned inclusivity into a business advantage, proving that representation isn’t just ethical—it’s profitable.

His commitment to disability inclusion is deeply personal. Born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Sibley has dedicated his career to breaking down barriers in media, travel, and business. Before launching Purple Goat in 2020, he co-founded Disability Horizons magazine and Accomable, a travel platform for disabled travelers that was later acquired by Airbnb. These ventures cemented his expertise in building businesses that merge accessibility with commercial success.

Purple Goat has since worked with global giants like Google, Unilever, and Channel 4, engaging the $8 trillion global disability market in ways that go beyond token representation. The agency’s work was recognized with Gold at the 2023 Global Influencer Marketing Awards.

More than just running an agency, Sibley is a thought leader and speaker, using his platform to educate businesses on inclusive marketing, accessible design, and workplace diversity. His message is clear: brands that embrace inclusivity not only future-proof themselves but also tap into an underserved and highly engaged audience.


15. Sedge Beswick

Sedge Beswick founded SEEN Connects to redefined how brands collaborate with influencers, prioritizing authenticity, creativity, and measurable impact. Under her leadership, the agency expanded internationally, working with powerhouse brands like Nike, eBay, and LVMH, and earning a reputation as a pioneer in influencer marketing.

Before launching SEEN Connects in 2016, Sedge was already shaping digital marketing. She was ASOS’s first-ever social media hire, where she built and led a team of 34 across eight markets, crafting groundbreaking influencer and celebrity-led campaigns. She also held key marketing roles at Red Bull and Three UK, cementing her expertise in brand storytelling and audience engagement.

Beyond business, Sedge is a respected thought leader, mentor, and public speaker, regularly sharing her insights at industry events and universities. She has been featured in BBC News, Sky News, Forbes, and the Financial Times, where she has openly discussed both her successes and the challenges of navigating the industry as a female entrepreneur.

In 2023, after successfully scaling and exiting SEEN Connects, Sedge transitioned into consulting and advisory roles, helping brands and agencies refine their digital strategies and influencer partnerships. She also founded NXT LVL, an initiative designed to support up-and-coming talent in the creative industry.


16. Lewis Walker-Bell

Lewis Walker-Bell is leading the charge in helping creators and brands thrive in the ever-evolving social media landscape. As the CEO of Ritual Network, he oversees one of the UK’s top YouTube and TikTok management agencies, specializing in audience growth, content optimization, and multi-platform monetization.

Under Lewis’s leadership, Ritual Network has expanded into a global operation, managing over 400 invite-only content creators across 51 countries and generating a staggering 10 billion monthly views. The agency has also achieved an impressive 135% revenue growth year-on-year, proving its ability to turn influencer marketing into a scalable and sustainable business model.

Beyond creator management, Ritual Network is at the forefront of brand collaborations, connecting companies with high-quality influencers for campaigns that drive real engagement and ROI. In 2024, the agency made headlines with its partnership with io.net, aiming to enhance AI computing and revolutionize digital content creation.

Lewis’s expertise in content distribution and influencer marketing automation extends beyond Ritual Network—he is also the co-founder of Infinite Influence, a leading platform that streamlines brand-influencer collaborations. His background in talent management and digital strategy has positioned him as a key player in the creator economy, helping both influencers and brands navigate the complexities of online media.


17. Matthew Hayes

A visionary in brand partnerships and influencer marketing, Matthew Hayes is redefining how businesses connect with creators. Matthew, a Managing Director of Influencer Matchmaker, has lead the company into one of UK’s top influencer marketing agencies, bridging the gap between brands and digital talent across multiple industries.

Beyond Influencer Matchmaker, Matthew is the co-founder and Managing Director of Champions (UK) plc, a multichannel brand agency specializing in digital marketing, public relations, and business growth strategies. His expertise in brand positioning and strategic marketing has helped scale campaigns for high-profile clients like Uniphar Group and TATA Communications.

Under his direction, Influencer Matchmaker has become a go-to agency for brands seeking authentic influencer collaborations, ensuring that marketing objectives align seamlessly with creator partnerships.

Recognized as a thought leader in digital influence, Matthew actively engages with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors to explore new opportunities in brand storytelling, talent partnerships, and influencer-led campaigns.


The Visionaries Behind London’s Influencer Marketing Revolution

London’s influencer marketing scene is thriving, thanks to a new generation of CEOs who are redefining digital advertising. From data-driven agencies to creative-first firms, these leaders aren’t just running companies—they’re shaping how brands connect with audiences in an increasingly social-first world.

Whether it’s Labrum London turning a football pitch into a high-fashion runway or Goat, Fanbytes, and SEEN Connects revolutionizing brand partnerships, the CEOs of these firms are proving that influence is more than just followers—it’s about crafting stories that resonate. As the industry evolves, these leaders and their agencies will continue to set the global standard for influencer marketing.

About the Author
Jacqueline Zote is a freelance writer and content producer. She writes for leading blogs in the digital marketing space. Her areas of expertise include influencer marketing, social media marketing, social media management, and content marketing.