Esther Clerehan’s career began at 17 in the mail room at Ogilvy Melbourne in 1977.

That’s not a typo.

At 24 she moved across into recruitment and at 32, she started her own company.

For almost four decades Clerehan has been building creative departments and shaping thousands of careers, in Australia and around the globe.

Esther’s influence extends beyond recruitment. She actively contributes to industry discourse, serving on the AWARD Council for 8 years and as Chair of RMIT University’s industry advisory for 5 years. Clerehan has also been involved with AWARD School since her first lecture in 1993.

She is a regular speaker and panelist on diversity, career planning and creative leadership.

Esther is a trusted advisor. Her advocacy inspired the formation of The Aunties, a mentoring movement and support network for women and marginalised genders across the industry. She is proudly the OG Auntie.

Clerehan’s commitment to creative excellence has been recognised with multiple accolades, including the 2023 induction into the MADC (Melbourne Advertising Design Creativity) Club’s Hall of Fame: Champion of Creativity award and the 2024 Women in Media Lifetime Achievement award.

Esther was named the top Industry Recruiter in 2023 and 2024 by B&T Magazine.

Clerehan continues to be a pivotal figure in recruitment, advocating for ongoing progress in diversity and equality, and remains a mentor and advisor for many in the industry.