Looking to kickstart or pivot your career in 2022?
We’ve put together a list of 50 top companies to work with! We formulated this list by using insights about the popularity of companies and the jobs they post on The Dots, topped off with a dash of our team’s wisdom and a good mix of brilliant charities and values-driven companies.
Be sure to follow your favourites to stay up to date with their events and all-important job opportunities!
180 The Strand
At the heart of 180 is a network of production and exhibition spaces that support emerging talent and provide a space for creative growth. A highlight from 2021 was the RYOJI IKEDA exhibition, which invited visitors to immerse themselves in Ikeda's dynamic digital universe.
A New Direction
A New Direction celebrates and shapes the creativity of children and young people in London, to achieve their full creative potential. Transforming the creative landscape, A New Direction is an award-winning non-profit organisation.
Adidas Group
Employing over 57,000 people, Adidas had humble roots in Germany but has expanded to a global giant in sportswear. With the core belief that sports has the power to change lives, Adidas focus on the authentic.
Airbnb
Airbnb made it big by enabling people to rent short-term holiday accommodation and successfully navigated the choppy waters of 2021 by leaning heavily into unique online experiences, putting much-needed cash in the pockets of chefs, entertainers and makers. What’s not to love about that?
AKQA
Prioritising the imaginative application of art and science, AKQA is a leading innovative, digital agency with staff in Europe, North America, South America, Asia and Australasia. In 2021, AKQA won awards including Cannes Lions, D&AD, Fast Company, Gartner, and were also certified as a Great Place to Work®.
Alexander McQueen
One of the most celebrated fashion houses in the world, last year Alexander McQueen became the first luxury house to collaborate with the resale platform Vestiaire Collective, encouraging customers to engage with the secondhand market and reshaping the future of fashion for the better.
AllBright
2021 saw a huge focus on community building, and AllBright is leading the way to support and inspire a network of women by creating an inclusive space, events and academic courses.
Amnesty International UK
Amnesty International's dedication to social justice all around the world has transformed it into one of the world's largest grassroots human rights organisations.
Apple
The tech superpower Apple is famous for its vibrant marketplace and a multitude of roles to offer. You can expect to work with some of the brightest colleagues around with the opportunity to gain a hail of experiences. Keep an extra eye out for their Today at Apple events!
BBC
2022 will be a big year for diversity in the media landscape as the BBC commits £100m to increase diversity on TV, a decision led by BBC's first Director of Creative Diversity, June Sarpong.
Bumble
Female-focused app Bumble continues to be a model for diverse management. Their humorous 2021 campaign ‘Fall in love with dating’, celebrates the imperfections of dating. We also saw Bumble become the Apple App Store ‘Trend of the Year’ winner, with new funding for 2022. Watch out for Bumble’s planned expansion!
Channel 4
Breaking boundaries and championing represented audiences and communities, Channel 4 was the first and only broadcaster last year to make a significant commitment to bringing new creative ideas and stories to the UK audience. Their Black to Front Project deserves celebration for featuring a schedule led by Black talent on and off-screen for one day.
Condé Nast Britain
A mothership of media responsible for game-changing titles such as GQ, Wired and of course with Vanessa Kingori appointed the new Chief Business Officer, Condé Nast is set for continued diversification and inclusion, both within the office and on the print magazine. . Expect a constant flurry of roles across the board.
Converse
The iconic all-star brand is focused not only on what people wear but also on creating tools that enable expression and have a positive impact on communities. Keep a lookout for Converse's Give Your Best program, as well as the Converse Renew line, made from re-engineered knit and repurposed scraps – moving the classic style icons toward a zero-waste future.
Creative Equals
Working with the biggest brands in the world such as the BBC, Spotify, Condé Nast and more, the award-winning global consultancy has made an incredible impact on making the creative industry a more diverse and equitable place, highlights including their #AdLand Commits campaign to address institutional racism in the advertising industry.
Creative Mentor Network
Social enterprise Creative Mentor Network is brightening the creative industry with mentoring programmes, training and consultancy to help people from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Starting to expand their programmes internationally, they are making a huge impact to make underrepresented people seen.
D&AD
D&AD represents global creative, design and advertising communities and celebrates brilliance in commercial creativity, running a variety of schemes for emerging creatives such as through their New Blood programme and annual festivals. Keep your eyes peeled for the new D&AD Shift with Google industry-led night school programme for new creatives, applications open Feb 2022.
Days Brewing
Fancy a pint? Launched in October 2020, this ‘Beer for Doing’ start-up brews 0.0% non-alcoholic beer. With the increased focus on health and wellness, the alcohol-free beer space is creating a refreshing change to the beverage industry. Days has raised £1m in funding to fuel its 2022 ambitions to entice more consumers and occasions.
Dazed Media
This independent media brand is one of the world’s leading for fashion and culture. Starting as the bi-monthly style mag ‘Dazed and Confused’ covering music, fashion, film, art, Dazed now produces across print, digital and video. In 2021, Dazed100 was a global celebration of next-gen talent leading across their fields, with the Open to Change partnership with Converse, promoting opportunities, representation and education in the creative industries.
Depop
One of the most dynamic startups on the scene, Depop’s goal is to create the #1 social marketplace for unique items, fashion and beyond. What’s more, Depop was acquired by Etsy last year and is set to continue helping influence the future of fashion and tech to be more sustainable. With an ever-evolving status, expect to find great roles in everything from development to marketing.
Design Museum
The UK’s centre of design, running tons of extra initiatives and programmes on top of the everyday exhibitions. We are always astounded by the Design Museum’s ability to connect and support a new generation of designers.
Dezeen
Dezeen represents the epicenter of influential architecture, interiors and design. Acquired by JP/Politiken Media Group earlier this year, watch this space for its ambitious growth plans.
DICE
Having shaken up the way we consume and interact with events, DICE is transforming the events industry bringing culture and live stream to our homes. Despite covid, nothing has stopped us from being entertained, educated and enlightened by the ticketing site.
Etsy
Putting makers and crafters at the centre of e-commerce, Etsy has exploded in the creative collaboration scene. Supporting Etsy’s rise has been the surge in online shopping and the conscious buyer theme.
F That
Disrupting the digital space, F That specialise in deviant and shareable content. From powerful, interactive and highly shareable filters, F That have produced content for Warner Music, Sky and WWF.
Fanbytes
Producing content that’s designed to make an impact, marketing agency Fanbytes has had over 500+ brand partners and 5000+ influencer collabs on a global reach, it’s clear they are going to continue trending into 2022.
General Assembly
Be sure to check out General Assembly’s range of educational and career transforming programmes and classes. If you want to get stuck into tech, General Assembly specialise in a global upskilling curriculum throughout the year
Google
Keep a lookout for Google Brand Studio's Rare Creative Fellowship, inviting emerging creative talent from a variety of disciplines – design, filmmaking and creative technology – to work with Google’s creative teams for nine months.
Greenpeace
A green and peaceful future is set for the horizon with the help of the Greenpeace movement. 2021 has been a tough year with climate change, but we’re celebrating Greenpeace victories including banning the sales of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030 and pushing for thousands of wind turbines to be placed in the ocean.
Havas Group
Making meaningful difference to brands, businesses and people, Havas is one of the world's largest global communications groups. Most recently, they launched Havas Boost a new programme providing investment and support to emerging media and tech start-ups founded by underrepresented groups.
Hemingway Design
This agency is made up of multidisciplinary designers with a conscience, specialising in affordable and social design. In 2020 they launched The Good Business Festival – part of a global movement that believes in the power of business to effect positive change whilst generating higher returns and ensuring longevity.
Holly & Co
Community is at the heart of business support group Holly & Co. Founded by Holly Tucker MBE (who also founded notonthehighstreet), Holly & Co is a safe space for brilliant independent UK business owners to get tips, share and get the advice they need to thrive.
It's Nice That
Part of the HudsonBec Group, It’s Nice That flourishes with creative talent, sharing meaningful and inspiring work. Highlights of 2021 saw them collab with Today at Apple for an event series ‘New World’ which explored the power of creativity. Keep an eye out for more exciting things to come from them!
LEGO Group
Derived from the Danish words "leg godt", meaning "play well", LEGO is the timeless toy that regenerates its appeal for every generation. Committed to building a sustainable future, last year LEGO expanded their manufacturing practices, revealing their new prototype made from recycled plastic. From sales to product design and brand management, there are countless opportunities at this wonderland of playtime nostalgia.
Leo Burnett
Advertising agency Leo Burnett has an umbrella of impactful brands under its wing, including McDonalds and TUI. Making work that connects on a human level. Founder of This Way Up, Rebecca Rowntree, was announced as Creative Director late last year and is leading the charge for more female voices to be heard.
Livity
Working to make a better future, Livity collabs with brands and the next generation to adopt change, drive conversation and disrupt the creative industry. Connecting their Future List of diverse talent to upcoming trends and opportunities.
Monocle
Covering international affairs, business, culture and design, there are a myriad of opportunities at Monocle, spanning their magazine, 24-hour radio station, website, retailer and media brand.
Nike
Pioneers of groundbreaking sports fashion innovation, Nike invests in sustainable products, making positive impacts in communities along the way.
ON ROAD
The strategic research agency that uses immersive insight and storytelling to inform and inspire organisations to think outside of the box when it comes to customer engagement.
Penguin Random House UK
2021 saw the publisher create some of its best content to date, including their brilliant virtual events series, featuring a stellar list of guests such as Barack Obama, Dolly Alderton and Bernardine Evaristo. Penguin’s work with #Merky Books also deserves a shoutout, giving a platform to a host of exciting up and coming BAME writers.
Pentagram
Paving the way as the world’s largest independent design consultancy, it is owned and run by 21 partners, all leaders in their creative field. A notable 2021 work includes their ‘The Colour of the Climate Crisis’ exhibition with Do The Green Thing.
Pinterest
With over 400 million monthly active users, The Dot’s team love Pinterest’s dedication to pro-social values. A 2021 Highlight included the launch of ‘Pinterest Elevates’, a mission to make Pinterest more diverse and inclusive by supporting underrepresented businesses on the platform.
Roundhouse
The hub of music and entertainment, where artists and young creatives can grow and create extraordinary works of art, through music, media and performance. Helping to shape the next-gen, their next big project will be the opening of a new state-of-the-art creative centre in late 2022.
RSPCA
RSPCA is a charity that advocates for animal welfare and rescue in the UK. In an attempt to minimise the risk of animals suffering from neglect, cruelty and abuse, RSPCA rescue thousands of animals each year. RSPCA offers creative and strategy roles for those who have time and want to make a difference in the world.
Shelter
With covid’s unprecedented impact on homelessness, Shelter's significance as the go-to charity to support those experiencing housing difficulties is more important now than ever. More than 1 million people a year seek Shelter’s advice and support.
Snap Inc
Reinventing the world of filters and communication, Snap Inc brings the fun to technology, from allowing people to stay in touch with friends through Snapchat to creating fun characters using Bitmoji. If you’re looking to join the fun, Snap Inc has a range of internships to branding and tech roles to offer.
Soho House & Co
A members club with stunning original decor, primarily for those in creative, arts, tech and media, jobs can be found in their houses across the UK and further afield in Berlin, Istanbul, Barcelona, Malibu and more. For two years Soho House has partnered with Creative Mentor Network on a mentorship programme, matching members to young mentees to offer help and support in pursuing creative careers.
Soho Works
We're excited for the expansion of Soho Works – an international network of workspaces by Soho House, designed and equipped to help creative thinkers and businesses connect, collaborate and grow. The beautiful 180 Strand was the latest space to launch this year, filled with modern style and masses of space for collaboration.
Sony Music UK
Fostering and curating the music of our lives, the music giant houses some of the most exciting artists of our generation, including Rosalía, Lil Nas X and Tyler the Creator.
Spotify
With a continued focus on podcasts, discovery and user experience, Spotify continues to excel and innovate in the audio space. What will your 2022 ‘Wrapped’ list look like?
Squarespace
The leaders of website design and development, Squarespace is an all-in-one solution for anyone looking to create a beautiful website. With chic features and seamless user experience, Sqaurespace eliminates the hassles of building your own website.
The Conduit
Professional community The Conduit is a collaborative and intuitive space for entrepreneurs, investors, creatives, business members who bring together knowledge and sustainable positive impact.
The Face
The space to get inspired by the world's culture and creativity, the dazzling website and print magazine was revamped in 2019 to showcase fresh talent and fly the flag for innovative journalism.
The Guardian
Celebrating 200 years of journalism, The Guardian continues to deliver the latest news, current affairs and business stories from around the world. If you’re looking to broaden your horizons, do check out Guardian Live events and masterclasses.
The Prince’s Trust
Empowering and supporting young people to upskill and develop their careers, the Trust continues to develop brilliant content, a highlight being their popular series of virtual events featuring speakers from the most impactful companies in the world, including Google, Apple, Facebook and more!
Universal Music UK
Without doubt, Universal is one of the UK’s leading music companies – home to artists from across the musical spectrum including The Rolling Stones, U2, Florence + The Machine, Sam Smith, Years & Years and many more.
Warner Music Group
Warner Music is home to extraordinary talent, partnering with some of the most exciting, influential and innovative artists of our time, to provide them with industry-leading in-house expertise. Their roster includes Ed Sheeran, Vance Joy, Rudimental, Jason Derulo and many more.
Wolf & Badger
A global marketplace for independent brands, with ethical and sustainable values - ensuring all lines are sustainable and independent with absolutely no animal testing and no fur.
Zinc VC
Empowering entrepreneurs to up-scale, through a mission-led approach, Zinc VS helps new founders to navigate the world of business and have a lasting impact.
Be sure to follow your favourite companies to stay up to date with their events and all-important job opportunities!
Image credits (from top)
1. Roundhouse by Asa Ariyoshi
2. The Guardian - 200 years a work in progress by Rae Stones
3. Change Means Business – Apple x The Dots
4. Act With Pride by Squarespace
5. LUX Exhibition at 180 The Strand
6. The Bright EDIT by Tianna Greham
Companies
Pentagram
- Design
Spotify
- Publishing
Roundhouse
- Events
AKQA
- Design
Condé Nast
- Publishing
Sony Music UK
- Music
BBC
- Media Production
HemingwayDesign
- Design
The Dots
- Technology
Channel 4
- Television
Universal Music UK
- Music
General Assembly
- Design
A New Direction
- Charity
Soho House & Co
- Arts and Culture
Havas Group
- Advertising
D&AD
- Design
Airbnb
- Retail
Creative Equals
- Social Enterprise
Etsy
- Publishing
Squarespace
- Technology
the Design Museum
- Design
Monocle
- Publishing
Leo Burnett
- Advertising
Adidas Group
- Fashion and Textiles
Warner Music Group
- Music
Google
- Technology
Apple
- Technology
DICE
- Music
Dazed Media
- Publishing
Dezeen
- Publishing
Penguin Random House UK
- Publishing
Creative Mentor Network
- Social Enterprise
Shelter
- Charity
Amnesty International UK
- Social Enterprise
It's Nice That
- Publishing
Depop
- Technology
Converse
- Fashion and Textiles
Nike
- Fashion and Textiles
The Guardian
- Publishing
Zinc VC
- Technology
Livity
- Marketing & PR
Greenpeace UK
- Non Creative Industries
Alexander McQueen
- Fashion and Textiles
Fanbytes
- Advertising
Wolf & Badger
- Retail
The Prince’s Trust
- Charity
180 STUDIOS
- Arts and Culture
Pinterest
- Technology
Holly & Co
- Events
Snap Inc
- Technology
LEGO Group
- Education & Research
AllBright
- Marketing & PR
ON ROAD
- Advertising
Google Brand Studio
- Technology
Bumble
- Technology
RSPCA
- Charity
The Conduit
- Non Creative Industries
The Face
- Publishing
F That | Digital Creative Agency
- Music
Soho Works
- Non Creative Industries
Days Brewing
- Non Creative Industries