Description

Can you thrive in agency life without burning out?

At Walker Sands, the answer is yes. In this episode, Jena sits down with Allison Ward, Chief People Officer at Walker Sands, a fast-growing B2B marketing agency that’s rewriting the agency playbook with career reinvention, flexibility, and real culture and not just ping-pong tables. From hybrid structure to intentional coaching and longevity that defies industry norms, this episode is packed with advice for job seekers and career pivoters alike.

What you’ll learn:

• Why longevity is rare in agencies and how Walker Sands beats the odds
• How a Wienermobile job launched Allison’s career (and why PR pros need reinvention)
• The difference between managers and coaches and how Walker Sands uses that intentionally
• How to identify and grow transferable skills (even from parenting!)
• Why feedback, flexibility, and “learning by doing” are central to thriving in this agency
• Tips on getting your resume seen and what not to do with AI

Some Walker Sands highlights:

Founded: 2001
Team Size: ~170 employees
Locations: HQ in Chicago + offices in Seattle and Boston, with hybrid/remote staff across the U.S.
Perks & Culture: 

• Primarily hybrid, strong remote inclusion, collaborative and feedback-forward
• Coaching over managing: every employee has a dedicated coach
• Employee-led Find the Fun committee (trivia, scavenger hunts, social hours)
• 5 active ERGs + volunteer opportunities
• Formal mentorship program
• Learning and development budget + team-specific programming

To learn more about Walker Sands:

Careers Page (They are hiring!)
LinkedIn Page
Allison's LinkedIn