In a major shake-up for the U.S. media landscape, Empower Media and Ocean Media have merged to form Empower Ocean Media Group, now the second-largest independent media agency group in the country. With combined media billings of $1.5 billion and a workforce of 400 professionals across New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, the new entity aims to set a new benchmark for agility, technology, and performance-driven client outcomes.
Amplifying Strengths, Preserving Identity
The merger brings together two of the nation’s leading independent agencies, each with decades of industry experience—Empower Media with 40 years and Ocean Media with 29 years. While both agencies will retain their individual operations, they will leverage centralized resources for media negotiations, procurement, and technology, maximizing scale without compromising their unique cultures.
The combined agency will serve a roster of high-profile clients, including PetSmart, Sprouts Farmers Market, Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Whataburger, JD Sports, BetMGM, CarGurus, Rakuten, Realtor.com, and Mint Mobile. By uniting their capabilities, Empower Ocean Media Group aims to offer a full-funnel, independent alternative to the traditional holding company model, increasingly criticized for rigidity and inefficiency.
Leadership and Vision
The leadership structure reflects a balance of continuity and collaboration. Ashlee Clarke, CEO of Empower Media, will continue to lead her agency and also serve as Co-Chairwoman of the group. Jay Langan, long-time CEO of Ocean Media, will maintain leadership of his agency, while Chris Clarke takes on the role of Executive Chairman for Empower Ocean Media Group.
“This marks an extraordinary new chapter,” said Clarke. “By combining our talent, technology, and scale, we’re creating a smarter, more agile partner that delivers fearless growth for our clients.” Langan emphasized the strategic advantage, adding, “By doubling down on advanced data insights, proprietary platforms, and performance-driven media strategies, we’re redefining what an independent agency can achieve while staying true to our roots.”
Implications for the Industry
The merger signals a rising trend in the media industry: independent agencies leveraging scale and tech to compete with global holding companies. By integrating advanced analytics, proprietary platforms, and full-funnel media capabilities, Empower Ocean Media Group is positioning itself as a nimble, client-centric alternative capable of delivering measurable results in an increasingly fragmented media ecosystem.
With this East-West alliance, the agency is set to challenge conventional approaches, offering brands a data-driven, tech-enabled, and independent option for media planning and buying. For clients seeking innovation without bureaucracy, Empower Ocean Media Group is staking its claim as the new model for performance-focused independent agencies.
