DRPG’s Summer Conference Champions Possibility, Innovation and the Power of Teamwork in its 45th Year

As we celebrate a milestone 45 years of creative communication, the entire DRPG team came together for a Summer Conference, packed with bold ideas, forward-thinking strategy, and a serious dose of fun. 

Kicking off with the ‘We’re Possible’ theme, the opening address set the tone for a day all about belief in our people, clients, ideas, and what comes next. The incredible work we deliver together isn’t just worth celebrating, it’s a launchpad for even bigger things.

The impact of the agency’s 45th anniversary was felt across the day, not least in the reflection on our journey so far. In a lively talk-show-style session, Presentation Consultant Catherine Shepherd and CEO Dale Parmenter took the audience on a rapid-fire ride through our most defining moments, from humble beginnings in 1980 to today’s global group. The company looked back at the culture that’s carried them through it all, mucking in, having a go, and failing forward. 

"Failure isn’t a flaw, it’s the fuel for creativity," was the message from the ‘Failing Forward’ session, reinforcing that big ideas come from bold thinking. At DRPG, learning from the tough stuff has always been part of the process, and it’s made us braver, sharper, and more innovative than ever.

That innovation was brought to life during AI Power Hour, an interactive showcase hosted freshers-fair style. With ten hands-on stands, team members explored how AI is already transforming our work across departments. Armed with AI Passports, the team were challenged to learn, explore, and imagine what’s possible next. 

Keeping the energy high, our Next Gen team took the stage to host a high-stakes ‘Task Master’ session, pitting board and team leaders against hilarious challenges, all while sharing key business updates and shining a spotlight on the months ahead. 

The afternoon wrapped with a clear and confident briefing on our H2 strategy, the vision for the rest of the year and beyond. From commercial priorities to cultural momentum, the direction was to keep building, keep believing, and keep making it possible. 

CEO Dale Parmenter commented: “We’re not just marking 45 years, we’re using it as a springboard. We’ve seen what happens when you bring belief, bravery, and creativity together, and now we’re pushing that even further. With our team, our clients, and the tech to back us, we’re ready for what’s next.”