Zach Basten
Creative Director
Zach Basten is a seasoned Creative Director with over a decade of experience driving exceptional creative solutions across diverse industries. He currently leads the creative vision and execution at Chomps, a prominent consumer packaged goods brand, where he is responsible for crafting captivating brand experiences that resonate with the target audience.
Professional Overview
As the Creative Director at Chomps, Zach is a strategic and innovative leader, leveraging his extensive expertise in design, branding, and digital marketing to elevate the brand's visual identity and drive impactful campaigns. He is adept at collaborating cross-functionally to translate business objectives into cohesive, visually-striking creative assets that engage and inspire consumers.
Experience Summary
Current Role
Creative Director, Chomps (2023-Present)
- Provides creative vision and strategic direction to the in-house design team, ensuring brand consistency and elevating the visual identity across all touchpoints
- Leads the conceptualization and execution of impactful marketing campaigns, driving a 25% increase in social media engagement and a 15% uplift in website conversions
- Collaborates closely with the marketing and sales teams to develop compelling product packaging and promotional materials that enhance brand recognition and drive sales
Career Progression
Creative Director, Leo Burnett / Arc Worldwide (2023-2023)
- Spearheaded the creative development of integrated marketing campaigns for a diverse client portfolio, including Fortune 500 companies
- Mentored and managed a team of designers and art directors, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment
- Recognized for driving a 20% increase in client satisfaction and securing several industry awards
Associate Creative Director - Art, Leo Burnett / Arc Worldwide (2020-2023)
Senior Art Director, Leo Burnett / Arc Worldwide (2018-2020)
Senior Art Director, Walton Isaacson (2016-2018)
Designer, Walton Isaacson (2014-2016)
Graphic Artist, Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company - MillerCoors (2013-2014)
Graphic Design Intern, Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company (2011-2013)
Marketing Intern, Miron Construction Co., Inc. (2011)
Academic Background
Zach holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, where he graduated with distinction and was recognized for his innovative design solutions and creative problem-solving skills.
Areas of Expertise
- Brand strategy and visual identity development
- Integrated marketing campaign design and execution
- Digital and social media marketing
- Packaging design and product visualization
- Art direction and team leadership
- Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams
Professional Impact
- Spearheaded the rebranding of a prominent consumer packaged goods brand, resulting in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 20% boost in sales
- Recognized with multiple industry awards, including the American Advertising Federation's ADDY Award and the Graphis Design Annual Award
- Actively engaged in industry organizations, serving as a guest speaker at design conferences and contributing to industry publications
Conclusion
Zach Basten is a versatile and accomplished Creative Director with a proven track record of driving exceptional creative strategies and delivering tangible business results. His ability to translate complex business objectives into visually-striking and impactful marketing solutions, coupled with his leadership acumen and collaborative approach, make him a valuable asset to any organization seeking to elevate its brand and captivate its target audience.