Executive branding is crucial for CEOs and founders, as a strong personal brand builds trust, authority, and influence among stakeholders. In today’s digital-first world, leaders are judged not only by titles but by online presence: a 2024 APCO study found that 77% of people say a CEO’s reputation influences investment decisions, and 70% believe visible thought leadership by an executive improves company perception. 

In other words, every LinkedIn post, media quote, or speaking engagement helps shape how the leader, and by extension, their company, is perceived. Research shows that millennials are especially persuaded by executive visibility (84% acknowledge a CEO’s influence on innovation). By actively crafting a compelling executive brand, leaders can directly boost customer confidence, attract talent, and even enhance the bottom line.

Top 20 Executive Branding Agencies

To build that powerful presence, many CEOs and founders turn to specialist agencies. Below are 20+ leading global firms that specialize in executive branding, personal brand strategy, and thought leadership. Each profile includes key services, unique strengths, and notable clients (with citations for credibility).

Ascendant Group (Newark, DE)

Ascendant Group (founded in 2004 by Raoul Davis) is a pioneer in CEO/executive branding. It helps Fortune 500 and Inc. 5000 leaders craft compelling personal narratives that extend beyond their corporate brands. Ascendant’s five-phase branding process (including brand architecture, PR, publishing, and design) ensures CEOs communicate with clarity.

Key Services: Brand strategy and architecture, executive PR/publicity, book and op-ed publishing, social media management, and professional photography and videography.

Unique Strengths: Exclusive focus on C-suite personal brands; founder Raoul Davis is a Forbes Agency Council member, and the agency has won multiple PR/branding awards.

Notable Clients: High-profile CEOs (Fortune 50 executives, startup founders, authors and even athletes). Ascendant’s case studies include global tech and finance leaders (client names are often confidential).

SimplyBe. Agency (Chicago, IL)

SimplyBe. is a boutique personal-branding and content firm for C-suite leaders, founded by marketing expert Jessica Zweig in 2014. The agency prides itself on authenticity—“being yourself”—while transforming executives into visible thought leaders.

Key Services: Personal brand messaging, social media strategy, content creation (blog and LinkedIn posts), media and presentation coaching, and leadership workshops.

Unique Strengths: Strong background in corporate technology and startups; Zweig’s experience at Google and consulting informs a mix of corporate and entrepreneurial branding expertise.

Notable Clients: Tech and media executives at Google, Pinterest, Salesforce, Verizon, and other blue-chip companies. These clients have used SimplyBe. to develop social campaigns and thought-leadership content; one case study involved a Google VP whose LinkedIn posts led to multiple speaking invitations.

Sterling Marketing Group (San Francisco, CA)

Sterling Marketing Group (SMG), led by branding author Karen Tiber Leland, is one of the longest-running executive branding consultancies. Leland (author of The Brand Mapping Strategy) emphasizes holistic brand-business alignment, ensuring CEOs’ personal brands directly support corporate goals.

Key Services: Personal brand strategy, executive storytelling, media training, and content development (including keynote speeches, blog posts, and books). They also offer unique “color strategy” consulting (using branding colors as part of the executive image).

Unique Strengths: Over 20 years of experience advising tech, life science, and professional services leaders. Leland herself is a Forbes Business Council member and Forbes “Most Influential CMOs” honoree, lending credibility. The firm blends strategic branding with Leland’s own high-profile network (e.g. speaking for YPO).

Notable Clients: Silicon Valley and Bay Area CEOs, startup founders, and enterprise executives in tech and finance. SMG’s clients span Fortune 500 firms to fast-growing startups.

Claire Bahn Group (Beverly Hills, CA)

Claire Bahn Group is a boutique executive branding and PR agency founded by former tech CEO Claire Bahn. Unlike a pure consultancy, Claire Bahn Group executes many activities in-house; the team often acts as a client’s marketing department.

Key Services: Messaging and thought-leadership articles, content distribution (social, video and podcast production), reputation management, and PR outreach. The agency also provides personal media and speaking coaching, writing and distributing content as part of retainers.

Unique Strengths: Founder-led and ROI-focused. Bahn (ex-startup CEO) insists on measurable impact; the firm tracks visibility metrics and lead generation. They appeal to time-pressed executives who want results (not just advice).

Notable Clients: Tech and lifestyle founders in Southern California and beyond. For example, they helped a fintech CEO launch a media tour and a B2B services founder secure corporate speaking gigs, tracking increases in media mentions and business inquiries

Delightful Communications (Seattle, WA)

Delightful Communications, founded by former Microsoft evangelist Mel Carson (co-author of Pioneers of Digital), specializes in digital PR and personal branding. It connects high-tech expertise with human stories.

Key Services: Executive brand consulting, “influencer” marketing, social media strategy, and content creation (including blog writing, video, and podcasts). They emphasize “people-first storytelling,” crafting authentic narratives that resonate with tech-savvy audiences.

Unique Strengths: Founder Mel Carson’s deep tech background and speaking profile. Carson is a respected author and lecturer in digital marketing. The agency is known for its creativity in social campaigns and for integrating storytelling into personal branding.

Notable Clients: Fortune 500 and enterprise leaders (especially in technology). They have served execs at Microsoft, Intel, Deloitte, Facebook, Accenture, and others. For instance, they helped a Microsoft technical leader amplify his thought leadership on LinkedIn and blogging, leading to new industry speaking invitations.

Influence & Co. (Boston, MA)

Influence & Co. is a content marketing and PR agency founded by John Hall in 2011. It specializes in turning executives into recognized industry experts through thought leadership.

Key Services: Ghostwriting of thought-leadership articles, PR outreach, and content amplification. They also offer executive visibility audits and brand coaching.

Unique Strengths: Proven track record in thought-leadership PR – the firm claims to have placed over 10,000 bylined articles for clients in top outlets. The in-house “Influence Academy” and frequent events position them as thought-leadership experts.

Notable Clients: C-suite leaders and experts at Fortune 500s, mid-market firms, and professional services. Clients span finance, healthcare, legal, and tech. Influence & Co. has secured placements for executives in Forbes, Inc., Fast Company, and other major publications (e.g., a financial services CEO got 15 media placements in one year).

Brand Builders Group (Nashville, TN)

Brand Builders Group (BBG), founded by speaker/coach Jeff Sanders, focuses on turning entrepreneurs and experts into major influencers.

Key Services: Content strategy (blogs, videos, social), public speaking coaching, and media outreach. They produce books and podcasts for clients, then pitch them to media and podcasts. The agency also offers multi-month group training programs for ongoing branding support.

Unique Strengths: Combines personal branding with speaking and publishing. BBG’s approach is highly scalable, many clients join membership programs for continuous growth. Sanders himself is active on Forbes/Entrepreneur platforms, lending authority to the brand.

Notable Clients: Mostly speakers, coaches, authors, and startup founders. For example, they’ve helped startup CEOs launch podcast tours and publish books. One case study shows a software CEO whose new content strategy led to major industry conference invitations.

The Brand Surgeon (New York, NY)

The Brand Surgeon, led by Angela Miller, is a boutique agency specializing in celebrity and public-figure branding. It caters to high-profile leaders whose image is closely tied to their success.

Key Services: Digital PR, strategic content creation (blogs, videos), social media management, and crisis/reputation management. They also secure media interviews and manage brand partnerships.

Unique Strengths: Combines PR expertise with discreet, white-glove service. Ideal for clients (CEOs or celebrities) who need a polished personal brand – from style and imagery to media strategy.

Notable Clients: TV personalities, best-selling authors, and influencers. For example, they have managed the online branding and PR for a celebrity chef and an NBA executive, creating press positioning and social campaigns

Prestidge Personal Branding (San Francisco, CA)

Prestidge Personal Branding is a luxury branding firm for C-level execs, investors, and public figures. They emphasize exclusivity and a high-end image.

Key Services: Personal reputation audits, executive coaching, elite media relations, and bespoke content creation. Services include professional photo/video shoots and managing placements in prestigious outlets.

Unique Strengths: Markets itself as a “white-glove” service for high-net-worth leaders, with offices in SF. Focuses on polished, confidential campaigns, often handling all aspects of a personal brand, from resume to runway.

Notable Clients: Finance, luxury, and tech executives. Case examples include a venture capitalist featured in the Wall Street Journal and a biotech investor preparing for an IPO – clients seeking media coverage in outlets like WSJ, Forbes, and CNBC.

Ohh My Brand (Austin, TX)

Ohh My Brand is a full-service executive and LinkedIn branding agency led by Bhavik Sarkhedi. It specializes in turning complex founder stories into engaging digital strategies.

Key Services: Personal brand audits, content strategy, LinkedIn profile optimization, SEO, media outreach, and one-on-one coaching for executive storytelling. They offer ghostwriting, LinkedIn management, and campaign retainers for continuous growth.

Unique Strengths: Data-driven approach with an emphasis on search optimization. According to the agency, 90% of client posts achieve Google first-page ranking. Sarkhedi himself is a Forbes Business Council member and a prolific thought leader on entrepreneurship.

Notable Clients: Primarily tech startup founders and SaaS executives worldwide. Case studies include a fintech CEO who grew his LinkedIn following tenfold and an AI founder who gained significant media coverage (names usually protected).

Brandall Agency (London, UK / Barcelona, Spain)

Brandall is a full-service branding and digital agency with a personal-branding division, co-founded by branding expert David Brier. It merges corporate design skills with executive branding.

Key Services: Logo and identity design, website development, brand messaging and storytelling applied to personal brands. They ensure a CEO’s visual identity (colors, typography, imagery) aligns with their narrative.

Unique Strengths: 360° branding expertise (corporate + personal). Brandall’s strength is its creative pedigree (David Brier is a well-known designer). Ideal for founders wanting a brand overhaul that includes their personal image.

Notable Clients: Tech startups and marketing firms in Europe. Notably, they have rebranded fintech founders end-to-end, refreshing both company and founder identities to present a unified brand vision

Blushush (London, UK) – Co-founder: Sahil “Brand Professor” Gandhi

Blushush is a London-based agency co-founded by Sahil Gandhi (a.k.a. “The Brand Professor”). It has a founder-first, playful design approach to branding (“No boring brands”).

Key Services: Visual brand identity (Webflow website design, logos, color schemes) and founder-centric brand strategy. They also run brand workshops and storytelling sessions to distill a leader’s essence.

Unique Strengths: Bold, creative flair in executive branding. Sahil’s strong personal brand (10K+ LinkedIn followers) amplifies the agency’s visibility. Blushush stands out for turning C-suite personalities into visually striking, personality-driven brands.

Notable Clients: Startup founders and creative ventures. For example, they built a vibrant website and logo for a fintech founder that conveyed both credibility and approachability. Their work is often showcased on design platforms, reflecting the agency’s focus on high-impact visual branding.

Klowt (London, UK)

Klowt is a boutique “bold social” agency focused on LinkedIn branding for entrepreneurs and small CEOs. Its founders call themselves the “Bold Social Architects.”

Key Services: LinkedIn profile redesigns, bespoke content creation (graphics and posts), daily content calendars, and community-engagement strategies. They promise “scroll-stopping” posts and use analytics to refine messaging.

Unique Strengths: Niche focus on LinkedIn for founders. As a young agency (founded 2020), Klowt has crafted a distinct voice and even coined the motto “Just f***ing post it” to push client action.

Notable Clients: Tech startup founders, marketing executives, and creative consultants. One featured project showed a 300% increase in LinkedIn engagement after their profile makeover.

Brand of a Leader (Toronto, Canada)

Brand of a Leader, founded by Marina Byezhanova, is a Canadian personal-branding agency targeting Gen-X entrepreneurs and executives. Their goal is to “scale the voices” of experienced leaders.

Key Services: Strategic storytelling, content development (social and web content), tagline creation, ghostwriting, social media management, and PR advice. They offer modular packages and emphasize long-term mentorship.

Unique Strengths: Focus on legacy-building for mid-career and retiring leaders. They coach clients to articulate their wisdom and industry insights for a broader audience, often preparing them for the next phase of their careers.

Notable Clients: North American CEOs in tech, manufacturing, and consulting. For example, they helped a software CEO implement a LinkedIn-first branding program that increased his profile views by 15×. Testimonials highlight speaking engagements and media interviews gained through the program

Elevation Branding (Vancouver, Canada)

Elevation Branding specializes in positioning executives as speakers and authors. The agency brands itself as an expert in launching leaders onto public platforms.

Key Services: Personal website design, media training, keynote presentation coaching, and book-publishing support. They align a CEO’s brand with speaking and publishing activities (pitching to media, arranging radio/TV interviews, etc.).

Unique Strengths: Niche focus on the book circuit and speaking events. Founded by a former corporate communications director, Elevation bridges corporate PR and personal brand by promoting executives’ thought leadership through storytelling and publications.

Notable Clients: Authors and corporate trainers. For instance, they helped a Vancouver finance author polish his executive profile and secure radio interviews ahead of a book launch

PRLab (Amsterdam, Netherlands)

PRLab is a Netherlands-based agency that fuses traditional public relations with personal branding. Its tagline is “PR-driven personal branding.”

Key Services: Integrated PR campaigns, media outreach, content marketing (op-eds, expert articles), and executive interview coaching. They identify target publications/events and leverage relationships to gain coverage.

Unique Strengths: International reach with a Netherlands HQ. PRLab is especially known in European tech and innovation circles. The co-founders are active in PR associations, keeping the agency plugged into industry trends.

Notable Clients: European founders and innovators in tech, healthcare, and creative industries. For example, they managed a media tour for a Dutch startup CEO, securing features in Wired and TechCrunch Europe, and helped a healthcare exec craft a viral thought-leadership piece

Archetype Personal Branding (Sydney, Australia)

Archetype is an Australian agency focused on visual identity and storytelling for personal brands. It emphasizes design-led branding for individuals.

Key Services: Creation of brand archetype guides (combining narrative and design), logo/website design, social media branding (profile graphics, templates), and storytelling workshops. They often deliver brand “starter kits” for new leaders.

Unique Strengths: Strong emphasis on creative, visual storytelling. Founder Sibon Schouten and her team have a background in design, so they often produce unique outputs (e.g. graphic memoirs for CEOs) to differentiate executive brands.

Notable Clients: Creative entrepreneurs, designers, and tech leaders in APAC. One project involved rebranding a fintech founder’s web presence to attract international investors; another was producing a visual autobiography for a tech CEO.

. Archetype has won Australian design awards, and Schouten is frequently cited as a top Australian branding consultant

ReactionPower (Redwood City, CA)

ReactionPower is a data-driven personal branding agency that focuses on executive branding with analytics and AI insights. They help leaders amplify their narrative using digital strategy.

Key Services: Executive branding strategy, online reputation management, social media management, and content creation. The firm tracks real-time data to optimize content and measure brand impact.

Unique Strengths: Emphasis on measurable results. ReactionPower highlights that 77% of people prefer companies whose values are championed by their online leaders and 80% are more likely to trust firms whose executives actively engage on social media. This data-driven approach ensures every branding decision is backed by analytics.

Notable Clients: Global tech and enterprise firms. The ReactionPower website showcases past clients through logos (Google, IBM, Microsoft, Intel, Walmart, etc. are prominently featured)

reactionpower.com, indicating experience with blue-chip companies.

Funky Marketing (Novi Sad, Serbia)

Funky Marketing is a boutique agency serving B2B startup founders, based in Novi Sad. They aim to make tech leaders stand out in niche markets.

Key Services: Personal branding strategy tied to demand generation; content-first marketing (blogs, social) designed to turn thought leadership into sales pipeline.

Unique Strengths: Specializes in B2B and tech industries. Funky Marketing’s creative approach “breaks free from dry, transactional branding,” making executives feel relatable. Their style is playful and bold, reflecting their motto.

Notable Clients: Tech startup and B2B company leaders in Eastern Europe. While case studies are modest, the firm is known in LinkedIn industry circles for effectively linking executive branding to business growth

Prestidge Group (New York, London, Dubai)

Prestidge Group is an international personal branding and PR agency with offices in New York, London and Dubai. It caters to CEOs and public figures who demand a high level of global visibility.

Key Services: A-to-Z brand management (content creation, social media, media placements, speaking engagements). They promise everything from front-cover magazine shoots and TEDx talks to TV appearances and thought-leadership articles.

Unique Strengths: Global reach and luxury positioning. Prestidge markets itself as providing “the right tools and connections” for executives to appear in top media. The firm operates like a personal PR agency for CEOs, aiming for cover stories and prestige placements.

Notable Clients: High-net-worth founders and investors. Prestidge’s site highlights features in major media (e.g., Forbes, Time, Wall Street Journal, CNN, Bloomberg), reflecting its ability to secure top-tier coverage for clients.

Why Executive Branding Is Essential in 2025

In 2025, leadership identity is digital identity. According to marketing experts, leadership “doesn’t end at the corner office—it lives online”. Investors, employees and partners all Google today’s executives before making decisions. In fact, an industry analysis notes that CEOs must “show up” on LinkedIn, podcasts and search results as much as they do in boardrooms. 

This digital-first reality makes personal branding a strategic priority, not a luxury. Strong executive branding builds trust and authority. A 2024 APCO survey found that 77% of U.S. adults say a CEO’s reputation directly affects their investment choices, and 70% believe visible executive thought leadership positively influences company perception. 

Put simply, people are more likely to engage with (and invest in) companies whose leaders they know and trust online. Another study shows 80% of consumers are more likely to trust a company whose executives actively engage on social media. 

In a world where the leader often is the brand, a credible personal presence can translate into stronger customer confidence, talent attraction, and even stock performance. The strategic value of executive branding has never been greater. With social platforms and media letting executives speak directly to audiences, a CEO’s personal narrative can set the tone for the entire company. 

Companies with visible C-suites report better employee morale and loyalty , while those whose leaders craft insightful narratives see increased brand awareness and lead generation. As Bhavik Sarkhedi (founder of Ohh My Brand) puts it, a leader’s “presence travels ahead of performance” – first impressions form online long before the first handshake. 

In summary, the modern executive brand functions as a pillar of corporate influence. A well-defined CEO brand cuts through digital noise, attracts media attention, and aligns stakeholder perceptions with strategic vision. In a hyper-connected world, investing in an authentic personal brand is essential for any leader who wants to stand out, build trust, and lead their company to success

Actionable Executive Branding Tips

Executives can take tangible steps to strengthen their personal brand. Key strategies include:

Optimize Your Social Profiles. 

Use professional headshots and clear, keyword-rich headlines on LinkedIn and Twitter. Highlight core values and accomplishments in your bio, and include up-to-date contact information. Because 77% of people prefer companies whose executives champion values online (and 80% are more likely to trust socially engaged leaders), being active on these platforms is crucial. Post regularly (e.g. weekly LinkedIn articles or posts) to showcase your expertise. Ensure consistency of voice and imagery across all profiles so your personal brand is immediately recognizable.

Create Thoughtful Content. 

Establish yourself as an expert by sharing insights regularly. Write or commission articles, blog posts, videos, or podcasts on industry topics. This could mean writing LinkedIn posts on leadership lessons, contributing bylined articles to media (influence agencies like Influence & Co. can assist with placement), or even hosting a webinar. Tailor content to your audience’s interests and company goals. The BluStream guide stresses that “people trust stories, perspectives, and values – not just job titles,” so weave your experiences and vision into every piece of content.

Engage with Media and PR. 

Build relationships with journalists and industry publications. Pitch story ideas or offer expert commentary on relevant news. Feature in podcasts or interviews to expand reach. Executive branding firms often include PR outreach as a service (for example, Ascendant or Prestige handle media placements). Even on a DIY level, aim to get quoted in trade articles or write op-eds in business outlets. Media exposure significantly boosts authority – remember that audiences are influenced by executives they see in the press.

Embrace Public Speaking. 

Seek speaking opportunities at conferences, panels, webinars and industry events. Presentations, keynote talks, and panel discussions amplify visibility. Prepare a signature talk aligned with your brand message. Leverage employee events or community meetups to practice storytelling. Public speaking not only spreads your ideas but also builds credibility – audiences see you as a thought leader. If possible, work with a coach (many branding agencies offer this) to polish your on-stage style and messaging.

Craft Your Authentic Story. 

Define your personal narrative: why you do what you do, what you stand for, and where you’re headed. Every profile, presentation, or post should echo this core story. Personal anecdotes about challenges and lessons can humanize you. The BluStream article emphasizes authenticity; it calls personal branding “leadership currency” and notes that executives should share not just their achievements but also their journey. Consistency is key: repeat your main themes across media, talks, and social channels so that your story resonates and builds trust.

By following these strategies—optimizing profiles, producing regular content, leveraging media, speaking publicly, and telling an authentic story, CEOs and founders can dramatically enhance their personal brands. In turn, this will attract new opportunities, partnerships, and confidence in their leadership.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Investing in executive branding pays dividends. A clear, compelling personal brand not only boosts a CEO’s credibility but also tangibly benefits the company. As research shows, visible leadership correlates with higher investor confidence and customer loyalty. By aligning a founder’s narrative with their business vision, an executive brand becomes a powerful marketing channel that drives growth. 

The agencies profiled above are leaders in this field, each with proven methods and high-profile results. Whether you need full-spectrum branding (strategy, content, visuals) or niche expertise (LinkedIn authority, PR outreach, speaking coaching), this list covers every corner of executive branding. For example, Sahil Gandhi’s Blushush offers bold design-led identity, while Bhavik Sarkhedi’s Ohh My Brand delivers data-driven LinkedIn strategy. Many of these firms have won awards and worked with Fortune 500 leaders, so you can choose one whose style and clients match your goals. 

Ultimately, your personal brand is an asset. A leader who actively shapes their narrative is more trusted by customers, employees, and investors alike. Take action now: review the profiles above and reach out to one of these executive branding agencies to start building your presence. Your future boardroom (and the wider world) is already watching – make sure your brand speaks before you do.

FAQ

Q: What is executive branding and why does it matter?

A: Executive branding is the practice of building and managing the public image of a company’s CEO or founder. It matters because a leader’s personal reputation often shapes perceptions of their entire organization. Research finds that 77% of people say a CEO’s reputation influences investment decisions, and 70% say a visible leader improves company perception. In other words, a strong executive brand builds trust and can drive business outcomes. By strategically crafting an executive’s image—through storytelling, media presence, and consistent messaging—a leader can enhance credibility and influence in 2025’s digital landscape.

Q: What services do executive branding agencies offer?

A: These agencies typically provide end-to-end personal branding services. Common offerings include personal brand strategy (defining your core message), content creation (ghostwritten articles, LinkedIn posts, videos), social media and LinkedIn optimization, media relations (PR campaigns, interviews, press features), public speaking coaching, and visual branding (headshots, slide decks, websites). Many also handle reputation management and executive coaching. For example, Ascendant Group offers PR and publishing along with branding, while ReactionPower uses data-driven social strategy and content marketing. Choosing an agency depends on your needs – some focus on high-profile media placements, others on social platforms like LinkedIn.

Q: How can personal branding benefit a CEO or founder?

A: Personal branding helps leaders stand out as authorities in their field. It fosters trust (employees and customers trust transparent, authentic leaders) and opens doors to opportunities: media interviews, keynote speaking, partnerships and investor interest. A strong personal brand can also improve talent recruitment, as 78% of people prefer to work for companies whose leaders are active online. In short, an executive who is known for valuable insights and values can elevate their company’s profile and market position.

Q: How do I choose the right executive branding agency?

A: Consider your industry, goals, and budget. Look for agencies with relevant experience (e.g. a tech CEO might choose one known for tech leaders). Review their client successes and thought leadership. For example, if you seek global media coverage, an agency like Prestige (with luxury connections) might fit. If LinkedIn is a priority, an agency like SimplyBe or ReactionPower could excel. Many firms offer initial consultations (some list introductory packages around $695). Ask about case studies: agencies usually highlight metrics (e.g., audience growth or media mentions). Finally, ensure the agency’s approach aligns with your style – some are visionary and design-focused (Blushush, Brandall), while others emphasize content and PR (Influence & Co., Claire Bahn). The agencies listed above cover a variety of specializations for 2025.

Q: Is it possible to build an executive brand on a limited budget?

A: Yes. Begin by optimizing your own profiles and producing some content in-house (e.g. writing LinkedIn posts or blog articles yourself). Consistently engage on social media and in industry forums. You can use free or low-cost tools to design your visual brand (e.g. Canva templates). Over time, gradually invest in professional services: for instance, hire a branding consultant for a few hours of coaching or use an agency’s entry-level package to kickstart your strategy. Even small steps—like publishing an article in a niche publication—can begin to amplify your executive brand