DHAKA, BANGLADESH — Akrum Hossain, one of the finest creative minds in Bangladeshi Advertising industry has embarked on a new journey as the Chief Creative Officer at POP5, an independent full-service communications agency with a mission to redefine creativity through insightful and purpose-driven innovation. With a legacy of groundbreaking accomplishments and an unyielding vision to showcase Bangladesh’s creative talent on the global stage, Akrum’s leadership at POP5 marks the beginning of an inspiring new chapter.
With its foundation steeped in inclusivity and empowerment, POP5 draws inspiration from popular culture and the five senses of communication, embodying its mission to connect meaningfully with audiences worldwide. The agency boasts a leadership team with over 120 years of combined experience and is set to redefine the advertising sphere with innovative tools and strategies. Under Akrum’s stewardship, POP5 aims to expand into 10 international markets within the next decade, striking a balance between global ambition and a steadfast commitment to purpose-driven work.
Sharing his aspirations, Akrum expressed his determination to elevate Bangladesh’s creative sector:
“I want to take Bangladesh’s creative industry to the global level and wave our nation’s flag at every major creative festival in the world. It’s time the world recognizes the immense talents we have to offer.”
Akrum’s ambitious plans include the launch of the Inclusive Creative Council (ICC) in 2025. This non-profit initiative, spearheaded under POP5, will focus on empowering creative minds from underrepresented regions. By providing mentorship, resources, and strategic guidance, ICC aims to equip these talents to compete on the global stage.
Akrum’s journey in advertising began with landmark achievements at Grey Dhaka, where he led initiatives like “AgroBanking” – a project that turned fresh produce into bank accounts for farmers – and the “Child Marriage Prevention Loan,” a groundbreaking social campaign. Other notable projects include “Impossipuzzle,” “BeeBoard,” and “Language Matters,” each contributing to his first Cannes Lions win and solidifying his reputation as a creative visionary.
As Executive Creative Director at Asiatic MCL, Akrum transformed the agency into a trailblazer in the creative industry, earning the accolade of “Number 1 Agency in Bangladesh.” His tenure saw Asiatic achieve unprecedented success, with campaigns like “The Unwritten Story” and “Plastic Farming” securing Cannes Lions shortlist positions, and “Plastic Exchange Store” gaining global recognition for its innovative approach to environmental sustainability. These achievements earned the agency Spikes Gold, AdFest Silver and Bronze, and a historic 16 metals at Mad Stars, including three Golds and 49 finalist positions.
In addition to his transformative work, Akrum is a celebrated thought leader and has served as a jury member at prestigious global festivals, including Cannes Lions, AdFest, Spikes Asia, Mad Stars, and Effie Awards. Recognized as one of Creativepool’s 25 Influential ECDs and included in Best Ads’ Top 50 ECDs, he continues to inspire creatives across the globe.
Through his leadership at POP5 and the Inclusive Creative Council initiative, Akrum Hossain is set to drive meaningful change, transcending borders and transforming the creative landscape. His journey is a testament to the power of exemplary leadership, and his relentless ambition to spotlight Bangladesh’s creative excellence on the global stage serves as an inspiration to all.
