Arnold, Havas Media Install Empathy Expert

Arnold and sibling agency Havas Media have hired Michael Tennant as Entrepreneur in Residence to leverage his expertise in empathy to help enable the people of Arnold and Havas Media to create even more effective and inclusive work for clients.

In addition to leading empathy and values workshops across all levels and departments, Tennant will also provide counsel to Arnold and Havas Media’s DE&I plans, fostering and reinforcing a culture of inclusivity. This will include giving employees the tools to engage in conversations that enable open dialogue across the business, with clients and partners, as well as in their own lives.

Tennant has extensive experience in the empathy domain. Three years ago, a passion to see progress in diversity, mental health and related issues led Tennant to found Curiosity Lab, a Black-owned, integrated entertainment and marketing company. He also created the empathy-building card game, Actually Curious. Earlier in his career, he spent time as a media, publishing, and non-profit executive.

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George Sargent, CEO of Arnold + Havas Media Boston and Tennant have known each other for some time, with recent events inspiring Sargent to collaborate with Tennant to develop this new collaboration.

“Empathy is a key ingredient in our agency interactions, client relationships, and storytelling,” says Sargent. “We believe it has the potential to transform the way we work with each other and elevate the work that we deliver for our clients.”

Under his appointment, Tennant will not be classified as an “employee” but will have a residency for a projected period of about nine months, during which time he will also continue to lead and grow his own business. His tenure as Entrepreneur in Residence is a partnership that is “designed to make a noticeable impact for the agencies’ clients, quickly,” explains a representative.  Over time, both parties can assess what makes sense as a next step.

1 comment about "Arnold, Havas Media Install Empathy Expert".
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  1. Darrin Stephens from McMann & Tate, January 27, 2021 at 5:32 p.m.

    What the hell is happening to this business?!?!?

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