ABOUT
Full Time / 2013 – Present
As a visionary creative leader, I’ve built and guided high-performing teams to craft cross-platform content with a focus on film and digital innovation. Partnering closely with senior leadership across accounts, strategy, media, and production, I’ve driven campaigns that not only meet but exceed client business goals.
I’ve redefined internal processes, fostering collaboration across departments and streamlining workflows for multiple brand clients and partner AORs. During the shift to remote work, I launched a program to support junior creatives, helping them sharpen their craft while building stronger agency connections.
From maximizing vendor relationships to mentoring creatives and interns, I’ve championed growth and creativity at every level. I’ve elevated brand aesthetics, reimagined visual identities, and overseen the development of 10+ campaigns annually—delivering integrated assets for diverse markets, including film, digital, social, and in-store visuals.
Accounts: Publix Supermarkets, Southeastern Toyota, Buffalo Wild Wings, The Home Depot, Big Brothers Big Sisters, National Organization for Women, McGraw Hill, United Way, Shark Ninja, Advent Health
DEI Leadership:
- Founding member of 22squared’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council in 2016
- Speaker at The One Club’s Creative Week 2021 on DEI initiatives.
- ADCOLOR attendee.
- DEI consultant for Wilson Language Training’s children’s readers and illustrations
PAST ROLES
Kastner & Partners – Associate Creative Director / Art Director
Santa Monica, CA / 2008 – 2013
Accounts: Red Bull, Adidas Golf, Tagg-The Pet Tracker, Simon G, MBT Shoes, Lifeproof
Secret Weapon Marketing – Art Director
Santa Monica, CA / 2006 – 2008
Accounts: Jack in the Box, SoCal Honda Dealers, Activision, Clear Network
BBDO West – Junior Art Director > Senior Art Director
San Francisco, CA & Los Angeles, CA / 2000 – 2006
Accounts: Visa, Visa Business, Pioneer Electronics, California Lottery, Mistubishi, Air New Zealand
Recognition
D&AD / One Show / Communication Arts / Archive / London International Awards / FWA / Obies / Beldings / Emmy / Print Magazine / Addys / ANDYs / Graphic Design USA
Effies: Big Brothers Big Sisters, Publix, California Lottery, Jack in the Box, SoCal Honda Dealers
Education
The Creative Circus – Copywriting/Art Direction
East Carolina University – English (Concentration in Writing), Sociology Minor
Born and raised on the East Coast of North Carolina, JR’s creative journey began as the son of a traveling hardware salesman and an X-ray technician. His passion for branding, typography, and design was sparked by the pages of Thrasher and Surfer Magazine, which fueled his imagination and shaped his aesthetic. After navigating the hustle of the Outer Banks’ restaurant scene—both front and back of house—he pursued his education, eventually earning his spot at the prestigious Creative Circus in Atlanta.
JR’s career took off at BBDO in San Francisco, where he honed his craft working on iconic brands like Visa and the California Lottery. Seeking new challenges, he headed south to Los Angeles, where he made waves with his work for Mitsubishi and the long-running Jack in the Box campaign. Now based in Florida, JR has become a creative force behind Publix Supermarkets, crafting campaigns that have garnered a cult following—much like the brand’s beloved Pub Subs.
Known for his dependability, enthusiasm, and problem-solving prowess, JR has built a reputation as a trusted creative leader and empathetic mentor. Whether freelance or full-time, remote or on-site, he’s ready to help agencies and clients tackle their toughest challenges. (Confidential references are available upon request.)
When he’s not crafting compelling campaigns, you’ll can still find JR pushing through town on his skateboard, flipping through vinyl at his local record store, or enjoying live music, the latest films, or museum exhibits with his wife.