You have something of mine.

An agency called AUK based in Bath are using my work (without my permission) on their agency showreel. Despite me having never worked there in my life. My ex Art Director and I came up with most of the work while at DDB. So it seems weird that AUK would try and pass it off as their own.

I probably should mention however that my ex Art Director actually did work there for a period of time. So I can sort of see why they thought it’d be ok to use that work. But he’s moved on to another agency now, so I saw this as an opportunity to make myself known in true Copywanker fashion. 

Here's my email to them. 

"Hello AUK,

I've noticed that quite a bit of my portfolio appears on your agency showreel. I'm glad you like my work. 

However, it's not cool. I'm pretty sure that content belongs to DDB.

I would've maybe let it slide if you'd bothered to hire me for my services as a freelance creative/copywriter. I've been in touch multiple times but to no avail - which is a shame because you clearly rate my work. ;)

This time I'm not getting in touch to see if I can help out. Instead, I'm going to have to ask that you kindly remove that work from your showreel.

Thanks in advance,

Kieran McConnell"

I sent that on Monday and still haven’t heard back from them. And they haven’t removed the showreel. A follow up email will be in order soon if they try and let this slide. Or maybe seeing this post will shift them into gear.

The reason I’m doing this (other than for interesting blog content) is that I’d never stick my name on something I didn’t have at least some involvement in. So I feel it’s fair enough to call them out on this. Would you agree?

Update: Literally about two hours after this post went live they removed the showreel and told my ex Art Director what a cunt I am. Sorry AUK, but next time I'd suggest responding to my email before I go public.