Experienced Professional in strategic thinking, creative conceptualization and execution in multiple mediums. Articulate and resourceful. Performance-driven self-starter with a long history of success in developing communications that align with creative brief and brand strategy. Readily accepts new challenges. Highly conscientious in strategic planning and follow-through to establish consumer and brand relationships. Ensures client satisfaction and continually evaluates progress. Entrepreneurial spirit. Active in the Maker Movement.

Where I’ve been

Creative Director, MARC USA / 9Rooftops, 27+ years
Working and growing through the ranks has brought me an immense wealth of experience. The inner workings of an agency, its growth and the responsibilities of individuals and the overall organization to their clients and community to name a few. Here are some of my key responsibilities throughout my career:

  • Worked closely with Research Team and Account Planners to craft and hone client strategy based on data and target segmentation.
  • Helped guide creative briefs with Account Group to maximize creative opportunity while reaching desired goal for clients.
  • Developed and articulated creative concepts and employed leadership skills to review work from internal and external teams to ensure alignment with the creative brief and client input.
  • Provided a full spectrum of oversight on key campaigns and client initiatives from budget review, conception, articulation and execution in all mediums.
  • Tracked cultural movements and media advancements to uncover opportunities to engage consumer bases.
  • Managed workloads in team environment toward best outcome of work. This includes finding opportunities for team members outside of their immediate scope to help them grow creatively/professionally. Management with mentorship.
  • Reviewed research findings on efficacy of campaigns and realigned processes and messaging as needed.
  • Self-taught in tech advancements to broaden the agency offering. This includes    Augmented Reality, CNC, Laser Cutting, Light Electronics, 3d printing & modeling.

Skills include:
– Writing
– Interpersonal awareness and team building
– Strong verbal and written communication skills
– Critical thinking and mentoring
– Strategic development and innovation
– Clear direction of all mediums
– Brand stewardship and standardization

Software:
Adobe Creative Suite
Microsoft Office Suite
Blender and AR programs
Midjourney / AI Apps

My past experience has given me a deep understanding to support the needs of my local, regional, national and international clients.
ALCOSAN / Alouette / The Andy Warhol Museum / Belle Tire / Checkers and Rally’s / Capital BlueCross / Carrier / Conair / Cooper Tires / Covestro / DDAP / DePaul University / Dick’s Sporting Goods / Heritage Valley Health System / La Tourangelle Oils / Lucas Oil / Make-A-Wish / MAV-TV / Mellon Bank Financial Services / Moen / PA Lottery / Pittsburgh Opera / Pittsburgh Pirates / Pittsburgh Zoo / Rite Aid / True Value Hardware / The United Way / Winner International

Active in many community, health and arts-focused groups and non-profits:
Attack Theatre, Pittsburgh Opera, PERSAD, Allies For Health And Wellbeing, Northside Common Ministries, Dreams of Hope, CLASS, The Heart Association, Urban League, United Cerebral Palsy, and the American Liver Foundation. 

Education

BFA, Graphic Design & Illustration
Youngstown State University

Words of Encouragement (for me and you)

I’ve worked with incredibly kind and talented people in my career. When you’re knee-deep in the muck of a complicated project with a timeline, a budget and all the things you can’t control, you learn quickly who you can depend on:

As a commercial director, I’ve had the pleasure of working with David on dozens of broadcast projects.  Whether working on an established campaign or concepting a new one, David always has a clear vision for the work with a tireless drive to enhance the creative.  He has an abundant skill set including design, copywriting, and post-production.  I’ve always known David to embrace the current advertising trends and master the latest technologies. He’s an intuitive listener, able to interpret even the most nuanced client objectives. 

Above all, David is a great guy—something that I’ve learned to be the most important aspect of any working relationship.  I look forward to the opportunity to work with him again in the future.

Regards,

Christopher Yurkow
Director/Partner
Bridge Street Films

It was a pleasure to have David as a Creative Director on my team. Throughout his time with us, he consistently demonstrated a rare blend of creative talent and a meticulous attention to detail. He has a unique ability to develop innovative, impactful campaigns while also thoughtfully considering every aspect of their execution.

Scott Seymour
EVP + Cheif Creative Officer
9Rooftops