Can you tell us about your journey into Adtech and what led you to where you are today?
My first foray into Adtech came after a six-year stint working in OOH (all the way back in 2012). I wanted to move into a brand new environment and challenge myself with emerging technology. I am someone who is curious, is always seeking to learn, and actively seeks out new challenges. It explains why I have such a diverse CV! Although I moved into a client leadership role within an agency, I always remained close to the Adtech world. I needed to make informed recommendations to senior clients, so had to be abreast of the rapid developments happening across the industry.
What challenges, if any, have you faced as an LGBT+ professional?
I do not think my sexuality has necessarily held me back professionally. The challenges I have faced as a gay man in the industry have been from unconscious bias. Things like not being invited to football events when every other man gets tapped on the shoulder (even the ones who make it known they don't like the beautiful game).
I used to hear terribly homophobic comments which was then followed by the person stating "well, I didn't mean you as you are normal". So entrenched is their bigotry that they never realised this is as offensive as the initial comments. Thankfully, these comments are less than they used to be - but have never disappeared entirely.
There was one time where a client made comments laced with transphobia and homophobia. I challenged this person's point of view, which crumbled under the slightest of interrogation. Earlier in my career, I would have let these comments go. But as a leader, it is my duty to create an inclusive, safe environment for all, therefore I will always call out these behaviours regardless of who says them.
Have you benefited from supportive employers, mentors or colleagues?
Very much so. I have always felt safe to be out and proud as a gay man in the ad industry. I have benefitted from fantastic colleagues who have always contributed to safe working environments. I have also been lucky enough to work for employers who have been supportive of their queer employees.
This was particularly true when at dentsu where I had the immense privilege to be the co-chair of its LGBTQ+ Employee Relations Group. One of the greatest honours in my career is marching at Pride in London - twice under the dentsu banner, and once after being invited by a client.
Have you seen the Adtech industry become more inclusive during your career? In what ways?
Absolutely. I cannot imagine a survey like this being done even ten years ago - that's a sign of progress!
The number of women in senior positions within Adtech also instinctively feels like it is increasing, which is another sign of how inclusive the industry is. We should bear in mind there are headwinds which are pushing back against inclusivity. I want the Adtech industry (and the wider Adland industry) to continue moving forward, creating an environment which is attractive to the widest pool of talent.
What advice would you give to the next generation of LGBT+ talent entering the workforce?
Do your research on the business. Check they are a company who are inclusive and are somewhere you can not only survive but thrive. Join the myriad queer groups across the industry - a brilliant way to network and gain different perspectives. But the big one is to be prepared to learn. The adtech industry is in a constant state of flux which you should embrace.
Which LGBT+ individuals do you look up to and why? (doesn't need to be Adtech)
Russell T Davies is a true icon. His stories are always state of the nation pieces, and he is presenting narratives and depictions of LGBTQ+ lives which we seldom see anywhere else.
What does Pride Month mean to you personally?
My feelings towards Pride fluctuate. In recent years, it has felt like a corporate love-in, which has diminished the origins behind Pride. But 2026 is very different.
It is less about the confetti cannons and Kylie, and more about raising awareness of the threats queer people are now facing from hostile forces. Last year, my partner and I experienced a homophobic attack on the day of Pride in London. If we cannot be safe as gay men at this event, then when can we be?
I will be attending a couple of Pride rallies this year, which I anticipate will feel more like a protest than they have in recent memory. This is very important as the societal progress we have made is being eroded, and this could accelerate if we do not raise awareness with straight allies and decision makers.
Interestingly, I am hearing less of the discourse around "why do we need Pride?", since I believe people are increasingly waking up to the fact prejudice towards LGBTQ+ is insidiously rising.
Lee Mabey, Founder at Possibility Consulting