Kickstand Doubles Margins, Expands Digital Services

AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 11, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Kickstand Holdings, a global marketing agency based in Austin, has named Kristina Kennedy as its new CEO, marking a significant shift in the company's strategic direction and financial performance. Under Kennedy's leadership, the agency has experienced substantial growth and improved operational efficiency, setting the stage for continued success in the coming year.

Kennedy officially took the helm in May 2026, and within the first 100 days of her tenure, the company launched a new strategy that focused its public relations services on five key industries: AI, fintech, martech, and supply chain. This strategic pivot has already yielded impressive results, with the agency generating over $3 million in net-new pipeline within that timeframe, leading to the closing of $1.3 million in new business, including the acquisition of five new retainer clients across the targeted sectors.

The CEO's leadership has also driven significant improvements in Kickstand's financial performance. The company's operating margin has nearly doubled, rising from 7.3% to 14.3% in the fiscal year that ended September 30, 2026. Additionally, net operating income has increased by 65% during the same period, indicating a substantial boost in profitability.

Kennedy's focus on driving top-line growth has been complemented by efforts to improve the agency's overall economics. The company has implemented several cost-cutting measures, including replacing its HR software with new, in-house tools that have reduced annual spend by $27,000. Additionally, the digital services practice has seen a reduction in annual delivery costs by over 6%, thanks to the automation of several operational processes.

The agency has also leveraged AI technology to streamline its operations. An internal summer AI challenge resulted in the development of three innovative tools: Signal Scout, which detects buying signals and automates outreach efforts, The Reactor, which connects years of executive commentary into real-time, reactive response opportunities, and a third tool that moves the entire team onto a shared workspace, providing common training and playbooks.

These advancements have not only improved the agency's efficiency but have also enhanced its ability to deliver results for its clients. Kickstand's data-first approach has proven particularly effective in helping brands earn media coverage in lockstep with thought leadership and owned content, resulting in nearly 1,400 pieces of earned coverage for clients so far in 2026. The agency's data-driven strategy has positioned it as a leader in the AI search space, with tech buyers and investors now relying heavily on AI search tools for early research.

The company's success has been recognized across various industry awards. So far this year, Kickstand has been awarded Platinum at the Pinnacle Awards for a product launch, Gold at the Hermes Creative Awards for a live or hybrid event, and has been named a Finalist for Best Use of Original Research at the Content Marketing Awards. Kennedy herself has been recognized as a Finalist for Best Female Entrepreneur at the Stevie Awards for Women in Business and as a Finalist for Best Cyber PR Agency at the Cybersecurity Marketing Society's Marquee Awards.

Looking ahead, Kickstand is poised for continued growth. The agency is focused on expanding its digital services, exploring potential acquisitions, and continuing its organic, verticalized growth strategy for its PR services. The company will be a sponsor at Cyber Marketing Con in Austin, where Marquee Award winners will be named, and is set to present its latest innovations to a broader audience.

With its strong leadership, strategic focus, and commitment to innovation, Kickstand is well-positioned for continued success in the coming year.