Sean Halpin is CEO and founder of Sentient Talent, an AdTech talent partnership agency. He also hosts the Programmatic Pulse podcast and co-founded AdTech Connect, a networking group for the next generation of AdTech marketers…
Who is your digital hero?
My digital hero is Ben Cicchetti, the SVP of Marketing and Communications at InfoSum.
What have they done to win hero status in your eyes?
Ben has earned hero status by consistently championing inclusivity and diversity within the AdTech industry. He uses his platform to ensure that underrepresented voices are heard, fostering a culture of acceptance and equality. His leadership in the LGBTQ+ community has set a powerful example for how businesses can and should support marginalised groups, both internally within organisations and in the broader digital ecosystem.
How has their heroism helped drive digital?
Ben’s commitment to inclusivity has driven digital forward by making the industry more inclusive, equitable, and diverse. By advocating for these values, he’s helped shape a digital landscape where different perspectives are valued, leading to more innovative and comprehensive solutions. His work ensures that the digital space evolves to be a place where everyone, regardless of background or identity, can contribute and thrive.
What are the biggest challenges in digital we need another hero to solve?
One of the biggest challenges in digital is the persistent North vs. South divide. Having spent time in Munich, I’ve observed that Germany has four major digital hubs, whereas in the UK, it’s still largely concentrated in London. As someone born and raised in Manchester, I’ve witnessed the digital landscape here grow significantly, but I wish to see this growth accelerate even more. We need a hero who can champion and drive the development of digital ecosystems beyond London, ensuring that cities like Manchester, and others across the UK, can reach their full potential
What is your most heroic personal achievement so far in digital?
If I had to pick one, it would be co-founding AdTech Connect, a networking group for the next generation of AdTech marketers. This was an area in digital where something needed to be done. After attending numerous industry events, I noticed a significant lack of young people, with most attendees being senior execs simply catching up with each other. This frustration was shared by my co-founders, Anya Libova, Rishan Chopra, and Jack Tunney, and together, we established AdTech Connect to pave the way for the next generation in AdTech to network, learn, and build friendships.
Another proud achievement is hosting my podcast, Programmatic Pulse. Through the podcast, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with industry leaders, delve into their career journeys, discuss current market trends, and most importantly, provide career advice for those looking to excel in the industry.
