Skip to main content

About Us.

We blend strategy, science, and storytelling.

Universus is a full-service agency specializing in creative, PR and research. We work primarily in automotive – partnering with OEMs, aftermarket firms and suppliers – but our work spans beauty and wellness, financial services, and not-for-profits like Special Olympics Ontario.

What makes us different is how we work.

The marketing world has changed. AI tools, in-house teams and templated content have made production more accessible than ever. But accessibility isn’t the same as strategy. And efficiency isn’t the same as impact.

That’s where we come in.

Meet our leadership team.

Niel Hiscox

President

Todd Phillips

Vice President, Innovation

Mark James

Director, PR & Corporate Communications

Niall Donnelly

Director of Operations and Production

Barton Smith

Creative Director

Paula Pronesti

Director of Finance and Administration

Frequently asked questions.

What does Universus actually do?
We’re a full-service creative agency specializing in PR, creative and research. We work primarily in automotive – with OEMs, dealers, aftermarket brands and suppliers – and across beauty and wellness, financial services and not-for-profit. We handle everything from earned media and brand strategy to video production, content and consumer research.
Do I need to use all of your services, or can I bring you in for just one thing?
Either works. Some clients come to us as a full agency partner, and we handle strategy, execution and everything in between. Others have capable in-house teams and bring us in as specialist support for PR, creative, production or research. We’re built for both, and we won’t push you into a bigger engagement than you actually need.
We have an in-house marketing team. Is there still a role for Universus?
Absolutely, and this is actually where a lot of our strongest partnerships live. We regularly work alongside in-house teams, plugging into the areas where outside expertise adds the most value: earned media strategy, research and insights, video production, or campaign creative. Think of us as an extension of your team, not a replacement for it.
Why Universus over a generalist agency?
Depth of sector knowledge, especially in automotive. We’re not learning your industry from scratch. We know the players, the pressures and the audiences. That fluency translates into faster ramp-up, sharper strategy and creative that actually connects. And because we cover PR, creative and research under one roof, the thinking is integrated from the start.
What does your research practice actually offer?
Our research team runs consumer and market research that gives you a clear picture of who your audience is, what they actually think and what drives their decisions. That’s useful on its own, but it’s most powerful when it feeds directly into your PR and creative strategy – which, with us, it can.
How do you price your work?
We quote each project on its own scope. No mandatory retainers, no recurring fees you didn’t ask for. Our quotes are transparent and reflect the time and expertise the work requires. Where it makes sense, we’ll walk you through a range of options (good, better, best) so you can decide where your budget is best spent.
What’s it like to work with you day to day?
Collaborative, direct and low-friction. You’ll have clear points of contact, a consistent team and regular touchpoints, but we don’t manufacture meetings for the sake of it. If you want to be closely involved in the process, great. If you’d rather we get on with it and come to you for approvals, we can do that too.
What kinds of PR work do you handle?
Media relations, thought leadership, executive communications, issues management and crisis preparedness, across traditional and digital media. We work with brands who want to build a sustained presence, and with clients who need to move fast in response to something unexpected.
How do I know if Universus is the right fit?
If you’re looking for an agency that knows your sector, can work at the level you actually need (full partner or specialist) and won’t make the process harder than it has to be, we’re probably worth a conversation. Our Google Reviews give you an honest picture of what clients say about working with us.
How do we get started?

Reach out and tell us what you’re working on. There’s no elaborate onboarding process. We’ll have a straightforward conversation about your goals, where you need support, and what the right engagement looks like. From there, we move quickly.

Ready to stand out?

Let’s talk about what your creative could be.
Get in touch. We’d love to help.