Positive Pitch and Partnership Award
Supported by
This pitch perfectly reflects what a positive pitch should comprise: a process grounded in partnership, transparency and mutual respect. The client openly shared their challenges, enabling us to collaborate on meaningful solutions. From the start, they created an environment where CAN felt like a true partner, not just a supplier.
Information was shared openly, feedback was constructive, and ideas flowed freely on both sides. We were involved in key moments, including market research sessions and face-to-face meetings, which strengthened trust and understanding. By valuing our input, supporting fair remuneration and encouraging collaboration, the client created a shared sense of purpose, delivering strong creative outcomes and a lasting partnership together.
Judges Comments
This pitch process run by Dr Falk demonstrated authentic respect for all agencies and parties to achieve meaningful partnership working.
From the very start there was a considered and objective method of selecting a small number of agencies for the process, continuing with an appropriate and equitable RFP that was detailed without being overbearing. The brief included concise information about the brand personality along with transparent evaluation criteria – which included market testing of the proposed creative.
The process provided ample opportunity to build chemistry with the final two agencies attending the concept testing in person, as well as multiple 1:1 interactions.
The judges saw that respect for the agencies was paramount throughout the process and this was most strongly demonstrated by the reimbursement of agency time for all their pitch work, in the form of an honorarium. Judges also commended the fair timelines, with clear expectations that were set from the outset and maintained throughout all communications.
Overall, this was an impressive example of a pitch process that truly advances standards and should be recognised as a beacon of best practice. It genuinely felt like the client had invested at least as much into the process as the agencies… Truly a Positive Pitch experience!
Patrick Kearns, PM Society
Travere Therapeutics created a standout RFI/RFP process that set a new bar for positive pitching in healthcare communications. Their brief was clear and thoughtfully structured with realistic timelines, enabling agencies to focus on meaningful, outcomes‑driven strategy.
Travere combined open, respectful communication and a low‑burden format that prioritised insight over performance. This approach enabled The Salve, with no existing relationship with Travere, to build rapport and deliver optimal strategic thinking.
Following selection, Travere has enabled the partnership to flourish by ensuring true collaboration/feedback within a wider all-agency initiative. Travere has demonstrated a genuine commitment to positive pitching and collaborative agency:client partnerships.
