Creativity is a byproduct. 

The result of a magical moment in time. Often coming from a sentence muttered, and a tingly feeling, felt by the other.  It is human emotion, hope and strategy, poured into a unified belief that this idea, brought to life, will connect enough to have a human in their very own moment in time decide “I need that.” “I want that.” “That will help me.”

But creativity, no matter what you think of it or what kind you think works, is the byproduct of people–how you treat them, how you build with them. And I’m a firm believer that great creativity isn’t built under pressure. It’s built under positivity, and the ability to see something unique where others may not recognize it.

I’ve spent nearly two decades learning the craft of creative at the intersection of vertical and medium, cultivating expertise along that way that makes me never afraid of the problem at hand. But in that time, more importantly, I’ve learned how to bring out the best of a team. I’ve learned motivation is built on self-worth, and it’s important to me that I help others just to see how smart and brilliant they are. Because if they believe it, then the things they make and the ideas they birth will reflect just that.

I believe in great creative. But most of all, I believe in the people making great creative. And if you want something that is inspiring and emotional and authentic for your brand, it starts with asking the same of your team.

That’s where I come in.

Jobs & Experience

VP Creative Director FCB, Chicago | 5/2021 - present

Executive Sponsor, Prism (LGBTQ+ ERG)

Clients: Brown-Foreman, Jack Daniel’s, Bob Evans, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Boeing, Pfizer, Nurtec ODT

Creative Director Ogilvy, Chicago | 10/2019 - 5/2021

Clients: CDW

Associate Creative Director SapientRazorfish, Chicago | 08/2014 - 10/2019

Clients: ALDI, Citibank, Children’s Hopsital Colorado, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Thrivent Mutal Funds, Harley-Davidson, Mike’s Harder & Abbott

Senior Copywriter VSA Partners, Chicago | 03/2013 - 08/2014

Clients: Goose Island, Kool-Aid, Country Time Lemonade, Crystal Light, The Bison Council, The Breakers Palm Beach, Cleveland Clinic

Senior Copywriter Razorfish, Chicago | 05/2010 - 03/2013

Clients: Eggo, Frosted Mini-Wheats, DiGiorno Pizza, Cheez-It, Ritz

Copywriter Element 79, Chicago | 03/2005 - 05/2010

Clients: Propel, Quaker, Reddi-Whip, Tropicana, Supercuts, Harris Bank, Cricket Wireless, Jump Mobile

Education

The Second City, Chicago Comedy Writing, Improv & Musical Improv | 2011 - 2015

Miami Ad School, Minneapolis Copywriting | Graduated 2004

University of Nebraska, Lincoln Bachelor of Journalism, Major: Advertising, Graduated 2002

Recognition & Awards

One Show, Webby Honoree, Cannes Festival of Creativity, London International Awards, Clios, Fast Company Innovation By Design Awards, New York Festivals Global Awards, Core 77, IDEA Awards, MMA Smarties, Chicago Addys, Creativity Media and Interactive Design, Creativity Print & Packaging, Communication Arts Design Annual, How International Design Awards