McCann Health Launches Creative Careers Program IGNITE

McCann Health today announced the launch of IGNITE – a creative careers program underpinned with the premise that ideas can come from anywhere, and so can creative talent. IGNITE aims to help kick start creative careers, regardless of background or experience – supporting the development of diverse talent in the industry and reflecting McCann Health’s belief that the next generation of creative thinkers are key to tackling the global health challenges of the 21st century. While IGNITE will draw on a talent pool from some established advertising institutions, no specific experience or qualifications are needed for applicants to apply. 

Over the course of a year, IGNITE will see 32 up and coming creatives placed at McCann Health New York and London. Along with open applications through a dedicated website, McCann Health is working with partner organisations to find talent. This includes: 

• D&AD New Blood Shift, an industry-leading night school program dedicated to training unconventional creatives from all walks of life, without a degree-level qualification
• Creative Access, the first organisation in the UK dedicated to recruiting under-represented and BAME talent in the creative industries
• The School of Communication Arts 2.0 in London, who have a mission to improve historically poor diversity statistics in the industry

Matt Eastwood, global chief creative officer, McCann Health said: “IGNITE is all about taking responsibility for creativity and diversity within our industry. We wanted to take an active role in shaping the future of our business. And, most importantly, we wanted to discover the undiscovered talent that exists not only in the creative colleges and courses, but in the wider world.”

Over the course of a year, the IGNITE program offers four, 12 week placements with an intake of eight per cohort – four in London and four in New York. The IGNITE intake will work on live client and pitch briefs.