Gina Grillo, President & CEO of The AD Club of New York, talks about building community and driving change in advertising with our president, Steve Gilman.
In an industry that moves fast and forgets faster, Gina Grillo is building something that lasts: a stronger, more inclusive community for the next generation of creatives, strategists, and changemakers. As the President and CEO of The ADVERTISING Club of New York, she’s helping the ad world evolve—one brave idea at a time.
In this episode, Gina joins Steve to talk about the role of community in a constantly shifting industry, and why representation, professional development, and transparency aren’t just buzzwords, but necessities. From launching early pipeline programs for high schoolers to partnering with the Creative AI Academy, Gina shares how the AD Club has become a hub for growth, learning, and connection.
She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ANDY Awards, including how they flipped the script with live judging sessions, new recognition like the AdLock, and a commitment to celebrating the people behind the work.
Gina’s leadership style is clear, collaborative, and refreshingly real. Whether you’re a young professional finding your footing or a seasoned marketer looking to stay sharp, her message is simple: keep learning, stay connected, and don’t wait to raise your hand.
