Jacqueline Keidel Martinez’s Post

There have been many posts about Edelman’s layoffs and restructuring announcements in the last 24 hours. As a fellow agency professional, I will continue to offer my support in any way I can, whether it is making introductions, reviewing resumes, or being a supporting ear. I recently shared some thoughts and words of encouragement in a post. I will include the link in the comment section. That said, I am surprised by the amount of criticism Edelman has received. They are not the first or the only agency conducting #layoffs or #restructuring this year. More #marketing and #communications agencies than not have decided to let go of their employees, including employees with decades of service and tenure. It is especially prevalent with holding company-owned agencies. What Edelman did (and personally, I appreciate it) was the amount of details they are willing to share. Most agencies tend to take a “close-off” approach or wait until the media finds out about it. As markets continue to be volatile, and as AI disrupts marketing and communications, all agencies will need to adapt to evolving client demands and changing industry trends. What agencies need to remember, and practice is how they handle the layoffs and how they treat their employees. Every individual, whether they have departed or are still with the company, deserves to be treated with respect and care.  

After six meaningful years at Edelman, I’m facing a difficult moment in my career. Like over 300 of my talented colleagues, I was affected by this week’s company-wide layoffs. My time at Edelman has been more impactful than I can express in a single post. I joined the firm after a significant career transition, and it quickly became a place where I was both challenged and supported, leading to the most transformative phase of my professional journey. I had the privilege of collaborating with and being mentored by some of the best people in the business. I seized major opportunities and earned three promotions by my five-year mark. Edelman will always be a special chapter of my story, no matter how suddenly it’s come to an end. I’m a firm believer that every end leads to new beginnings, and the evolution of my career has always been an exciting and rewarding aspect of my life. I have faith that what comes next will be no different, and I’ll look back on this change with just as much gratitude for where it takes me. The job market and timing are undeniably tough, and the support of this incredible network means the world. Any leads, recommendations, or even simple introductions to people you think I’d enjoy connecting with this holiday season would be so appreciated. Corporate reductions are a sobering reminder of the increasingly complex and unpredictable world we’re navigating today. To those who have been part of my Edel fam—you know you have me in your corner for life. Here’s to the resilience we all carry forward. #opentowork #recruitment #talentacquisition #edelman #layoffs

Hearing the news about Edelman's global layoffs today was tough. I worked at Edelman as an EVP for three years, providing an "outside" perspective gleaned from years' of work at creative agencies. While no place is perfect, the vast majority of colleagues I had the pleasure of working with were easily some of the best, brightest and most passionate around. They're brilliant, dedicated, collaborative, and will go above and beyond to do the right thing for their clients, the business, and each other. This was true both in the best of times and the worst of times. I adore my Edel-fam, who remain some of my closest friends to this day. Case in point? Just look at the number of people -- from Edel-alums to recruiters to clients -- offering support, help, and offers of introductions to those impacted. I'm proud to add my voice to that list. If there's anything I can do, anyone in my network you'd like to meet, or need a sounding board about your next move, please don't hesitate to reach out. Being there when things are good is easy; but being there when things are hard is what really matters. It may sting today, but I promise, you're not alone and you'll be okay. Most importantly, please don't be a hero, don't feel embarrassed, and don't feel uncomfortable asking for help. Lean on those of us who can help shoulder the weight, while you get back on your feet. #edelman #layoffs #support

Nearly three years ago, I joined Edelman full of excitement, ready to challenge myself and contribute to something bigger. I quickly discovered not just a workplace, but a home—a place where I could grow, collaborate with brilliant colleagues, and deliver work that I was truly loved. That’s why this post is so hard to write. I was part of the recent #Edelman layoffs, which impacted around 330 incredibly talented individuals across the network. This decision is as heartbreaking as it is unexpected, especially right before the holidays. At Edelman, I had the privilege of working on some of our largest accounts—PayPal, HP, Mars, and TJX Companies to name a few—crafting integrated campaigns, leading media relations strategies, delivering exceptional client service, and teaming up with some of the smartest, most creative people in the industry. I poured everything I had into my work because I genuinely loved what I did and who I did it with. While this chapter didn’t end the way I’d hoped, I’m choosing to focus on what’s next. I’m excited to bring my skills in integrated account management, media relations, influencer marketing, crisis communications, and content creation to a new team. Ideally, I’m looking for an Account Supervisor/Senior Account Supervisor role—remote or hybrid in the Fort Lauderdale/Miami area—but I’m also open to freelance or contract work. To my Edelman family—past and present—thank you for these incredible years. You’ve shaped me professionally and personally in ways I’ll carry forward. To those also affected by this round of layoffs, know you’re not alone, and I’m cheering for you every step of the way. If you know of any opportunities, have advice, or just want to connect, I’d love to hear from you. I’m ready to dive back in with the same enthusiasm and dedication I brought every day at Edelman. Here’s to finding the next great adventure. #OpenToWork #JobSearch #PublicRelations #MediaRelations #IntegratedMarketing #Bilingual #RemoteWork #Networking #Layoffs

Your worth isn't defined by a layoff. Being laid off doesn't mean you're not exceptional at what you do. It means a spreadsheet needed different numbers. If you were affected by the Edelman layoffs (I'm sorry), or you're a PR Pro still hunting for your next gig in this uncertain PR market (I'm sorry)- hug your loved ones tight. Feel grateful for the relationships that define us beyond our job titles. Your career is just one part of your story. I've posted several articles this year from retired PR legends who said they won't be thinking about their PR careers when it's all said and done. Sometimes, the best opportunities come disguised as setbacks. I've seen it firsthand as a PR recruiter, time and time again. If you're looking, drop a comment. If you're hiring, share an opportunity. Small actions create ripples of change. #PublicRelations #PR #hiring #opentonewopportunities #family

As I see posts across LinkedIn and elsewhere - learning about the layoffs affecting colleagues I work with directly (both professionally and personally), I am reflecting on the more personal side of these changes. My heart goes out to those impacted by recent layoffs and layoffs over the last 3-4 years. It affects mental health, relationships and livelihood. It's also scary for people and we can only empathize and feel deep compassion. I've watched cuts across the media landscape now for years, and I think this is the worst I've seen of it. From the AP, to NowThis, to WaPo, to financial and marketing firms and orgs that let go of people, sometimes on a whim it seems. Maybe I'm wrong... The recent news that Edelman has laid off over 330 employees as part of a restructuring is not surprising in the context of industry shifts, but it is hard to ignore the reality that this affects real people—many of whom have been with the company for years. While the business may be moving toward greater integration and efficiency, we must also recognize the human cost behind these decisions. This is a moment to consider not just business strategy, but also how we support and value the people who have contributed to the growth of companies for years. I get it - money makes the world go round. But restructurings should not come at the expense of dignity, and as we navigate these changes, empathy and respect hopefully will remain at the forefront... Edelman NowThis The Associated Press

PR Industry! I’m predicting a lot of candidate movement this year. Although last week’s poll is a small sample size, the results were overwhelmingly in favor of candidates seeking new opportunities in 2025. In addition, for the last week I have received a MASSIVE influx of candidates looking for new roles. An interesting trend was LARGE agency people interested in moving to a small/mid-sized company or agency 🤔. (Maybe bigger isn’t always better… the layoffs and mergers between global firms are having PR Pros re-evaluate their careers and what’s important to them in their work-life). Maybe this year will be “The Great Reshuffling”….?! Get your hiring plans sorted! #prjobs #publicrelations #PR #PRWeek #hiring #reshuffle

Career Update: Turns out, you can't outrun layoffs forever. Two weeks ago, I was laid off from my role as Director of Social Media at Randstad USA, alongside the majority of the Marketing & Comms team, as part of a larger global organizational restructure. While layoffs are never easy, I’m choosing to view this as an opportunity to explore new paths and embrace the next chapter of my career I’m currently finishing up a few projects at Randstad through early December, but I’m already looking ahead to what’s next. With nearly 15 years of corporate marketing experience across agency, startup, and global enterprises, I’m incredibly proud of the work I’ve accomplished and the communities I’ve helped build. Some highlights from my time at Randstad: ⭐ Transforming Randstad USA’s social media strategy into a social-first approach, growing followers by 45% to nearly 1M, increasing website traffic by 800%, and driving significant gains in engagements and impressions across all platforms. ⭐Driving $1.6M in B2C revenue through a targeted social media campaign for the Randstad app. ⭐Leading Randstad’s most successful influencer campaign, generating 1,465 leads at a CPL of $10.66, outperforming all benchmarks. ⭐Launching Randstad Digital’s LinkedIn presence, achieving a 915% follower growth in just six months. ⭐Revamping the employee advocacy program with Sprout Social, Inc.. delivering $2.98M in earned media value in just four months. Now, I’m taking this opportunity to focus on two goals: finding my next full-time role and stepping into the world of freelance, fractional, and consulting work for social media. I specialize in crafting social-first strategies, building engaged communities, and driving meaningful results for businesses. If you or someone in your network is looking for a Social Media Leader or a strategic partner for social media projects, let’s connect! You can learn more about my background and services here: https://lnkd.in/eEAuuqu7 Here’s to new beginnings and exciting opportunities ahead!

The hiring process can feel like an endless loop, and the ghosting culture only adds to the frustration, especially when you urgently need a job. It's disheartening to wait weeks for a response to emails. We all understand being busy, but if we pride ourselves on having an empathetic culture, this is when it should shine through. Currently, many advertising professionals are contemplating career changes due to the industry's perceived unfairness and vulnerability. It makes one wonder if we've failed ourselves as an industry. We see numerous award show posts, yet almost no agency addresses the tough times we're facing. A bit of perseverance can help. It might not solve everything, but it can lead to a future where we look back and remember how we faced challenges together, instead of just stories about layoffs and AI-generated rejection emails. Let's hope for a time when we can talk about our resilience and unity during these tough times. #AdvertisingIndustry #CareerChallenges #EmpathyInBusiness

Good information from Marc Goldberg 👇 𝑸𝒖𝒊𝒄𝒌 𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒚: 💡 The job market is competitive, but opportunities are out there. 💡While senior roles are fewer and more competitive, many jobs are still being posted across industries. 💡If you're searching, leverage your network to get ahead—referrals are key in this fast-paced hiring landscape. And if you're not looking, help someone in your network who is—support goes a long way. #jobsearch #networking #careers