Authenticity and transparency in the advertising industry: An interview with John Morris

Purpose ‐ The purpose of this article is to demonstrate to advertising professionals and students with an interest in marketing how one of the largest and most successful advertising companies in the world operates. Design/methodology/approach ‐ Provides a discussion and interview Findings ‐ Corporate and financial transparency go hand in hand with authentic brands that consumers trust. Brands must stay true to what they are, especially when a brand or company is in crisis. Bill Ford, Chairman and CEO, of Ford is an example of an authentic and truthful leader who is out front explaining to the American people what he is doing and why. Originality/value ‐ Advertising professionals and students with an interest in marketing will learn some key facts about how one of the largest and most successful advertising companies in the world operates.