We arrived at this
intersection at the exact same
moment.
Hello.
I was actually astonished to see that you are searching for a Studio Director because Firebelly is the studio I always wished I had started.
Strangely, it might be an optimistic moment.
Recent events have made me more grateful for what I have and helped me see opportunity where I may have only seen crisis.
Luckily, I’m nimble—finally doing what I’ve always wanted to do—design a better world by helping local businesses and non-profits thrive full time. But it could take a while to build it up to the level of Firebelly—apparently 20 years if I’m lucky.
For the past 10 years, I have worked as both Creative Director and Creative Strategist—leading teams to build and grow brands that engage and connect for Fortune 500 clients across all media—over 400 videos and TV spots, killer websites, effective apps, social, experiential, and print. We got results (and won a few awards too).
Lead.
I lead because I have been asked to. I’m the person people ask when they need to know what to do next, how to do something, or what they should do. I usually have a good answer, and if I don’t, I’ll find out.
My enthusiasm and curiosity are contagious. I motivate through encouragement, patience, and honesty. It makes former team members want to work with me again, and people work harder on projects they believe in. I also lead the AIGA Collaborative Projects Mentor Program. So I literally teach the class in collaboration. I’ve also spoken on the Design Leaders of Chicago panel so I guess it’s official.
One of my superpowers is finding the right people for our team. I’ve always sought out talented people who would bring a wider range of experience and viewpoints. (Our creative department was by far the most diverse team in the company.) They are out there. We may need to do a better job of finding and attracting them.
I have managed remote teams for the past five years—finding ways to stay connected, work creatively, and preserve the culture.
I led the transformation of our agency culture away from warring silos toward one united team with a common purpose. I also have a reputation for turning even the toughest client into a trusted partner. One client was ready to walk when they teamed her up with me. I won her trust and kept her as a client until I left 7 years later.
Experience.
I have experience working with boards and committees in the philanthropy, education, health, civic, and cultural markets—Chicago Alliance to End Homelessness, The Community House, American Medical Association (7 years), American Dental Association (7 years), American Academy of Pediatrics (4 years), Art Institute of Chicago (record-setting new membership campaign), Eclectic Full Contact Theatre (10 years—finishing in the black year one), N2O Sketch Comedy (STA100 and HOW magazine), Skills USA (two successful membership video and print campaigns), U.S. Mint, Chicago Public Schools, Advocate Healthcare, Silver Cross Hospital, Northwest Community Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Power Wellness, Abbott, McKesson, and Novartis.
Experience.
I have experience working with boards and committees in the philanthropy, education, health, civic, and cultural markets—Chicago Alliance to End Homelessness, The Community House, American Medical Association (7 years), American Dental Association (7 years), American Academy of Pediatrics (4 years), Art Institute of Chicago (record-setting new membership campaign), Eclectic Full Contact Theatre (10 years—finishing in the black year one), N2O Sketch Comedy (STA100 and HOW magazine), Skills USA (two successful membership video and print campaigns), U.S. Mint, Chicago Public Schools, Advocate Healthcare, Silver Cross Hospital, Northwest Community Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Power Wellness, Abbott, McKesson, and Novartis.
Business.
My former CEO said I was the most strategic designer she ever met. It’s what makes creative work, but it also allows me to plan and implement strategic direction, set budgets and forecasts, and monitor budgets and goals.
We doubled billings with our largest client in six months through increased demand for our vastly improved work, more efficient systems and workflows, and better communication with the client. I created new opportunities for collaboration with clients through new channels we invented. I have won new business with a high rate of success, increased business with existing clients, and helped them achieve and surpass their goals.
See the good things people are saying about me on LinkedIn and view samples of my work here. I look forward to speaking with you.
Thanks,
Bob