The UK Advertising Exports Group (UKAEG) has announced the return of the Leadership Icon Award, set to be presented at Advertising Week New York later this year. 

The award was officially launched at the opening of Advertising Week Europe in London, where the inaugural recipient, Matt Scheckner, Chairman of Advertising Week, spoke.

The annual award recognises outstanding leaders who have played a key role in strengthening UK-US relations in the advertising industry. 

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural award, which honoured Matt Scheckner, UKAEG continues to highlight those individuals and organisations shaping the global advertising landscape. The Leadership Icon Award reflects the increasing importance of cross-border collaboration between the UK and US markets, where advertising and creativity are central to growth and innovation.

Julian Douglas, International CEO of VCCP and Chair of UKAEG, commented: "Matt Scheckner’s leadership has been pivotal in shaping the advertising industry globally. His dedication to strengthening UK-US relations through Advertising Week has had a lasting impact, and it's an honour to present him with the inaugural Leadership Icon Award.”

Matt Scheckner, inaugural recipient of The Leadership Award, Chairman and Founder of Advertising Week, added: “I said it in New York, and I stand by it today, creativity is the UK’s greatest export. The UK has always punched way above its weight in our industry and beyond. It’s what connects us all. I’m truly honoured to receive this award, and it’s been a privilege to work here, with the UK. Advertising industry.” 

Nominations for the 2025 award open in July. This year’s panel of judges already confirmed includes: Jake Hay, President, Co-President of AAF Austin and Partner at Popshorts, Sophie Devonshire, CEO of The Marketing Society, Julian Douglas, International CEO at VCCP and UKAEG Chair. Matt Scheckner, Founder & Chairman of Advertising Week. and Aisling Conlon, International Trade Director for UK Advertising, Advertising Association.

With additional judges to be announced in the coming months, the award will continue to honour those who have contributed significantly to the relationship between the UK and US advertising industries.

"The Leadership Icon Award highlights the outstanding contributions made to strengthening UK-US relations within the advertising industry. As we prepare to open nominations for the 2025 award, we’re also looking ahead to our return to New York later this year for a trade mission at Advertising Week. We encourage all UK advertising companies with an interest in the US market to join us as we continue to drive growth and collaboration across borders," added Aisling Conlon, International Trade Director for UK Advertising, Advertising Association 

As part of UKAEG’s ongoing efforts to foster closer ties between the two countries, this year’s trade mission to Advertising Week New York will further advance the connection between UK advertising companies and the US market. Companies interested in expanding their presence in the US are invited to join the mission to strengthen collaboration and growth.

Nominations for the 2025 Leadership Icon Award will open in July. For more information on the award, the judging panel, and how to participate click here.