Hannah Anderson: Social Media - It’s Not That Deep

At SocialDay’s Social Media Marketing Festival 2025, hosted at Phantom Peak London, we are welcoming Hannah Anderson, Social Director & Managing Partner at NewGen. A decade at the forefront of social media has given Hannah a unique and unfiltered perspective on what truly matters in this fast-moving industry and what doesn’t

About Hannah Anderson

In 2014, Hannah co-founded Social Chain with Steven Bartlett and Dom McGregor, creating one of the UK’s most disruptive and successful social media agencies of the 2010s. Social Chain didn’t just ride the wave — it helped shape the future of social, both in the UK and beyond.

Following that, Hannah moved into the world of creators, becoming Managing Director at Kyma Media, the creator division of NewGen (formerly Kairos Group). There, she led revenue growth via influencer marketing and content syndication, working with some of the most recognisable names in content creation, including KSI, Amelia Dimoldenberg, and Soft White Underbelly.

Today, as Social Director & Managing Partner at NewGen, Hannah heads up social and content for brands like Pepsi, Hasbro, and SEGA, driving innovative strategies that cut through the noise and deliver real results.

Hannah’s achievements have earned her serious recognition — named one of Vogue’s Most Influential Women, delivering a TEDx Talk, speaking for NATO, and receiving Outstanding Contributor to the North at the Prolific North Awards 2022.

What to Expect from Hannah’s Session

Titled “Social Media: It’s Not That Deep,” Hannah’s session is a refreshing, no-nonsense take on what really drives success in social media. Forget overcomplicated strategies and jargon-filled presentations — this keynote strips things back to what actually works: consistency, creativity, and a bit of common sense.

Key areas of focus include:

  • How to achieve organic social success in a world obsessed with paid reach.

  • Why brands need to trust and empower their social media managers.

  • When to go big with branding — and when it’s better to stay authentic.

Key Takeaways

Attendees will leave with:

  • A clear, practical approach to making social media work without overthinking it.

  • Insights on the value of listening to your social team — they know the audience.

  • Real-world examples of when less is more in social content.

Hannah’s Perspective on Social Media Trends

Hannah sees AI as one of the most pressing forces shaping social media — both exciting and daunting. It’s already transforming the way we create, consume, and measure content, and while it offers massive potential, its future impact is still uncertain.

Her pick for standout campaign of the year? The death of the Duolingo Owl — a masterclass in cultural awareness and brand timing that had the entire internet talking, with brands from all sectors jumping on the trend.

But Hannah also highlights a growing concern: the platforms themselves. Many, in her view, are now actively harming users and creators, and she calls for more accountability and regulation to make social media a safer, healthier space.

A Social Media Success Story

Overall, Hannah sees simply having built a career in this ever-evolving industry over the past decade as a major achievement in itself.

Beyond that, one of her greatest joys is watching those she has mentored thrive - whether it’s founding their own businesses, delivering groundbreaking campaigns, or pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in social media. Seeing their success is the most rewarding part of her career.

What’s Next for Social Media?

Hannah’s vision of the future is clear: less pressure, more authenticity. The industry has become too focused on dissecting every post and chasing the next big thing. It’s time to step back, simplify, and create content that actually connects.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not that deep.

Connect with Hannah

Want to learn more from Hannah? Follow her here:

Hannah joins a lineup of leading industry professionals at SocialDay's Social Media Marketing Festival 2025, where top minds in social media marketing will share their insights and expertise.

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Alex Payne: How to Avoid Influencers Who Don’t Give a Sh*t About Your Brand