The International Advertising Association (IAA), the world’s leading network of marketing and communications professionals and the global umbrella organization for the marketing and advertising industry, is celebrating a significant milestone this October – its 85th anniversary.

To mark this momentous occasion, the IAA has organized a series of key events and initiatives aimed at uniting its extensive and multidisciplinary membership base.

The IAA officially unveiled its celebratory logo on October 3, 2023, marking the beginning of the 85 years of celebrations.

As per a press release, the prestigious summit features some of the brightest minds in the B2B sector from around the world.

An exclusive event in the heart of New York City, attended by 85 global leaders of the IAA and IAA Compass partners from 56 countries worldwide.

This highly anticipated event, held every 2-3 years in major cities globally, will focus on sustainability, diversity, equity, inclusion, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) topics.

Sasan Saeidi, Chairman and World President of IAA Global, highlighted the organization’s growth and evolution since its founding 85 years ago by Thomas Ashwell and 12 advertising executives. He emphasized the importance of the IAA’s role in addressing key industry issues and values.

Dagmara Szulce, Global Executive Director of IAA Global, emphasized the organization’s core values, including creativity, advocacy, education, collaboration, professional development, diversity, equity, and inclusion. These values underpin the IAA’s 85th-anniversary celebrations and its commitment to helping the communication industry adapt to a rapidly changing world.

Sheba Nandkeolyar, Global Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at IAA Global and President of IAA Australia, noted the increased demand to join the IAA network, which boasts over 4,000 individual and corporate members spanning marketing, advertising, media, IT communications, and academic sectors across 56 countries.

Heather Leembruggen, IAA Australia Chair, reflected on the organization’s 43-year presence in Australia, highlighting its thought leadership and iconic initiatives, such as the Big Idea Challenge, designed for the next generation.

Pradeep Dwivedi, IAA Area Director & Vice President, Asia Pacific Region, emphasized the potential of the IAA APAC region and its commitment to upholding the ideals of the IAA on a global scale, particularly in a dynamic business world characterized by creativity, technology, and social impact.

Avinash Pandey, President of the IAA India Chapter, expressed pride in being part of the global community that has shaped the marketing and advertising landscape. He highlighted the IAA’s commitment to innovation, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence in the dynamic industry.

The IAA’s 85th-anniversary celebrations serve as a testament to its enduring influence in the marketing and advertising sector, offering a platform for industry professionals worldwide to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the future of the field. As the IAA navigates the intersection of creativity, technology, and social impact, it remains a beacon of innovation and a driving force for the industry’s progress. Cheers to 85 years of global impact and many more to come!