Zambezi, founded in 2007 by former Wieden+Kennedy team members and the late Kobe Bryant, has grown into an independent powerhouse known for its roots in sports and culture. Head of content Alex Cohn, head of strategy Matt Babazadeh (he goes by Baba), and president Laura Stayt, explore the agency’s origin, evolution, and standout characteristics.
“We started with Vitamin Water, and that opened the door to Coke’s ecosystem,” Alex shared, setting the tone for a history of impactful work.
With offices in Los Angeles and Minneapolis, the conversation dives into Zambezi’s unique DNA, its ability to balance creativity with strategic rigor, and why it’s a go-to agency for brands seeking authentic, culturally relevant campaigns. We also dig into the agency’s FIN Studios, School and Scale offerings—and its role as a certified women-owned and Worldwide Partners agency.
What is Zambezi’s Backstory?
Zambezi was founded in 2007 by ex-Wieden+Kennedy creatives and Kobe Bryant. Initially focused on sports and culture, the agency’s first major account was Vitamin Water, opening doors to Coca-Cola’s ecosystem. This foundation set Zambezi apart as a creative yet strategy-driven agency that excels in culturally relevant work, particularly with iconic brands and athletes.
What is Zambezi Best Known For?
The agency is known for its sports and cultural expertise, along with being a women-owned and women-led business. Their top strengths include their ability to scale like a network while maintaining nimbleness, offering integrated services across creative, media, production, and social. Long-term client relationships and a focus on authentic storytelling further solidify their reputation.
Why is Independence Important to Zambezi?
Independence allows Zambezi to prioritize authenticity and flexibility. They craft unique campaigns tailored to each client, free from the constraints of larger network agencies. This independence also enables them to connect deeply with mid-market brands and ambitious clients who share their drive for growth and innovation.
Why Should Brands Work with Zambezi?
Zambezi’s ability to uncover and leverage a brand’s “superpower” sets them apart. They craft campaigns rooted in strategic insights while celebrating the core essence of each brand. For clients like Traeger and TaylorMade, this approach has led to compelling, long-lasting work. Their adaptability and passion for truly understanding their clients’ industries make them an ideal partner.
How Does Zambezi Handle Celebrity Partnerships?
Zambezi excels in managing celebrity and athlete collaborations by emphasizing authenticity. Their experience includes working with icons like Dwayne Johnson, Jennifer Garner, and LeBron James, crafting campaigns that resonate with both the talent and the brand. They also assist in brokering major deals, leveraging deep expertise in sports and culture.
Why Should Talent Join Zambezi?
At Zambezi, employees enjoy opportunities to contribute meaningfully early in their careers. The agency fosters an entrepreneurial, growth-focused culture, offering flexibility for individuals to explore their passions. With a supportive team and access to exciting, high-impact projects, Zambezi stands out as a dynamic place to grow professionally.
Which CMOs or Marketers Does Zambezi Admire?
The team admires marketers who value innovation and authentic storytelling. Highlights include Traeger’s Todd Smith for his partnership-driven approach, and Karen Riley-Grant of Vuori for her success in scaling the brand quickly. They also appreciate creative leaders like Brad Harrington, who combine challenger-brand energy with strategic vision.
Learn more
- newbusiness@zmbz.com
- 310.450.6800
Doug Zanger is the founder and editor-in-chief of Indie Agency News. He is also the founder of the Creative Bohemian consultancy, lives in the Pacific Northwest and is insufferable about it.
