AAR Announces Retirement of Martin Jones: Reflecting on Three Decades of Shaping New Business

AAR is announcing the retirement from the company of Martin Jones, a well-known figure in agency new business and a major influence in pitch consultancy. Recognised for his vast knowledge, ethical approach to agency selection, and a deep passion for new business, Martin - who managed AAR’s creative practice until two years ago - will officially retire from AAR after 27 years next month, with his legacy leaving a lasting impact across the industry.

Martin joined AAR in 1996 from J. Walter Thompson and subsequently earned the respect of clients, agencies, and peers for his expertise, empathy, and fairness, ensuring that AAR was the go-to partner for agencies and marketers alike. Over the years, Martin has been involved in more than 1,000 pitches and has played a role in establishing some of the most successful relationships for brands including Comparethemarket, John Lewis and KFC. In addition to this, he has enthusiastically shared his knowledge with the next generation, coaching and mentoring numerous agency new business professionals.

In 2022, Martin formally handed over leadership of AAR’s creative practice to Rebecca Nunneley. Since then, Rebecca has continued to evolve AAR’s offering, shaping it into a practice fit for modern marketers and the increasingly dynamic marketing landscape, while staying true to the principles on which the practice was founded.

“Martin’s contributions to AAR and the wider industry are immeasurable,” said AAR CEO Victoria Fox. “His ability to blend deep industry knowledge with genuine empathy and integrity not only shaped AAR into the consultancy it is today but has also had a profound impact on the careers of those who have had the privilege of working with him. Martin has always been committed to the good of the industry and to helping others reach their potential.”

Founded in 1975 by Lyndy Payne, AAR was the world’s first pitch consultancy. Martin and his partners, Kerry Glazer and Paul Phillips, took over in 1998, strengthening AAR’s leadership position in marketing and agency search and selection. Today, AAR continues to lead the way as trusted consultants to the marketing industry, helping brands to unlock the full potential of their marketing strategy through expert consultancy and an in-depth understanding of marketing operating models.

As Martin’s time at AAR reaches an end, AAR celebrates Martin’s incredible contribution to both the company and the wider new business community and looks forward to building on his immense legacy.

About AAR 

AAR has been part of the fabric of the agency new business landscape for nearly five decades. From our beginnings as the world’s first agency search and selection consultancy to our evolution into a consultancy helping clients optimise their operating models, we’ve always been committed to shaping the industry and delivering value for brands and agencies. Today, as the marketing landscape continues to evolve, we remain focused on ensuring our clients’ people, processes, platforms, and partners are firing on all cylinders to deliver outstanding results.