AXM is No. 4 prioritizing empathy, autonomy and flexibility—the core principles that support AXM’s culture of awareness
SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 20, 2026 — Ad Age has named Ars X Machina (AXM), the technology-powered media agency behind Agile Mix Modeling™, to its Best Places to Work 2025 list. In an industry struggling with burnout and retention, the recognition validates AXM’s founding belief that people do their best work when life works too, a philosophy proven by an 87% employee retention rate over the past three years and an average client tenure of more than five years.
“AI gives us speed and scale; our people bring the innovation, creativity, and direction,” said Taji Zaminasli, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, AXM. “That combination is also why we can deliver senior-level thinking without big-agency overhead. Clients get more value from every dollar because our team is focused on the work and being a great client partner.”
The ranking is based 80% on direct employee feedback, which is what makes it meaningful. “This year’s Best Places to Work winners show what it looks like to lead with intention during a period of constant change,” said Dan Peres, president of Ad Age. “They’re investing in their people, prioritizing flexibility and building cultures that support both performance and retention.”
“This recognition really belongs to our team,” added Josy Amann, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, AXM. “People who feel trusted and supported don’t just show up, they solve harder problems, push boundaries, and genuinely invest in client outcomes. We hear from clients that they feel the difference when they’re working with a team that loves the work.”
