merger announcement: OKRP joins forces with Barkley to form a new agency, BarkleyOKRP
Merging the big minds of Barkley and OKRP, BarkleyOKRP is poised to shake up the independent agency landscape across the US. With around 650 employees spread across five strategically located offices in cities like Chicago, Kansas City, Denver, New York, and Pittsburgh, this powerhouse agency is set to run circles around its competitors.
The merger, brokered by Keystone Capital, happened back in 2024. Over the past year and a half, OKRP had been exploring growth opportunities, and when they crossed paths with the dynamic duo of Jeff King, CEO of Barkley, and Dan Fromm, the agency's president, it was a match made in advertising heaven. As Tom O'Keefe, former head of OKRP, puts it, the partnership makes perfect sense.
Indeed, when you analyze their respective portfolios, it's clear to see how the strengths of both parties complement each other. For instance, OKRP's marketing prowess—they've snagged key clients such as Planet Fitness, Smoothie King, and Frontier Airlines under the creative leadership of Katy Hornaday—will undoubtedly help the merged entity tap into new markets and cater to a wider clientele.
Moreover, BarkleyOKRP boasts a digital content studio, FUEL, which has grown to house over 80 creatives. This asset is a strong selling point, especially for clients seeking top-notch digital content solutions. Their "Big Indie" positioning, which combines the agility of boutique agencies with the capabilities of large holding companies, is another crucial draw for clients seeking a unique blend of leeway and horsepower.
In March 2025, they expanded their services further with the establishment of MissionOne Media—a new media agency that promises to deliver full-service media solutions to clients old and new. With such a robust offering, BarkleyOKRP surely stands out, even amongst bigger fish in the pond.
But it's not just their services that make them stand out—the combination of experienced leadership and innovative culture sets BarkleyOKRP apart. They've strengthened their leadership with the appointment of Katy Hornaday as CEO, known for her strategic acumen, and Nate Swift as President, a veteran in client business integration. The shift of senior leaders into founding partner roles ensures continuity, allowing new blood to drive growth and innovation, leveraging the experience and wisdom of the veterans.
But rest assured, BarkleyOKRP won't rest on their laurels. They've earned recognition as one of the largest independent full-service agencies in the US, boosting their credibility among clients and industry peers alike. Their "Big Indie" culture, reflected in their digital content studio FUEL and the vision behind their name, makes them an attractive proposition for Talent and clients seeking fresh ideas and perspectives in advertising.
So buckle up, folks—BarkleyOKRP is coming, and they've got some serious chops to back up their ambitions. Let's see how the advertising game changes with this mega-agency in the mix. Game on!
The merger of Barkley and OKRP, facilitated by Keystone Capital, is poised to bring a unique blend of capabilities to the finance and business arena. With the incorporation of OKRP's marketing prowess and Barkley's digital content studio, FUEL, the synergy between the two agencies positions BarkleyOKRP as a force to be reckoned with in the industry, offering top-notch digital content solutions and catering to a wider clientele.
