About

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY   

Hands-on marketing leader with a consumer-first mindset, driving teams and campaigns that place audience needs at the heart of every decision. Skilled at uniting editorial and design partners to craft storytelling where words and visuals work in perfect harmony. Equally comfortable digging in to shape concepts as I am setting strategic direction and empowering teams to deliver exceptional results. Thrives in the fast-paced, shifting landscapes of retail and B2B marketing, bringing decisive leadership, adaptability, and a deep command of voice, tone and visual storytelling across every format.

EXPERIENCE

August 2019-June 2025  

Hallmark Cards                    Kansas City, MO

Creative Director

  • Partnered with account and media teams to align creative strategy with business objectives and audience insights

  • Helped lead music direction, casting and creative direction for radio and video projects

  • Led copy development for national campaigns across digital, print, and video for over a dozen product lines

  • Recruited and led team of writers and editors, guiding career development and navigating promotions

April 2017-August 2019                      

Associate Creative Director

  • Collaborated with art directors, strategists, and marketing managers to create integrated campaigns

  • Successfully competed against external agencies to bring broadcast video work in house

  • Served as editorial lead on cross-functional projects involving design, research, product marketing, and social media teams

  • Collaborated with multicultural marketing team to develop culturally relevant messaging across diverse consumer segments

April 2015-April 2017                        

Senior Copywriter

  • Crafted copy for TV, radio, digital and social ads across multiple client accounts

  • Helped create a Shoebox Cards rebrand that gave the brand extensive, positive exposure, won a Gold Addy and helped drive sales 30% above plan

  • Partnered with design and production teams on creative execution

  • Mentored junior creatives, fostering a culture of experimentation and collaboration

July 2010-April 2015                      

Copywriter

  • Wrote copy for Hallmark.com. emails and social content

  • Won internal creative pitch competitions, resulting in full-scale campaign development

  • Served as the sole editorial contributor for Hallmark digital apps and emerging technology

  • Presented concepts to clients and participated in pitch development

Sept. 2009-June 2010  

Sioba Advertising and PR                     Bonner Springs, KS

Copywriter

  • Performed all writing duties for the advertising and marketing needs of more than a dozen clients

  • Provided conceptual oversight and copy for commercial, B2B and promotional websites

  • Created new business collateral that assisted in the acquisition of multiple new clients

March 2008-Sept.2009

PTK Communications                               Kansas City, KS

Junior Copywriter

  • Created concepts and copy for numerous print and direct mail campaigns

  • Responsible for the naming and renaming of various companies, products and events

  • Led branding and rebranding efforts for clients including KBS Constructors, Victory Junction Camp, Chateau Avalon Hotel, and Belton Parks and Recreation

EDUCATION___________________________________________

Dec. 2007                 University of Missouri Kansas City            

Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies (Emphasis in Journalism and Mass Communication)

Reviews

“Zach is an extremely talented copywriter and the consummate team player. His ability to think conceptually is well beyond his years, and he always comes to the table with something unexpected and fresh. He’s highly strategic and asks the “whys behind the why” to dig for the insights that will lead to inspired work.”

Nicole P

“Zach was a breath of fresh air and brought a deep level of curiosity and insight I didn't know was possible. Zach is extremely introspective, intuitive and a student of observation that makes him a great writing talent. You can count on Zach to bring not only a great ability to think deeply to the table, but fun as well. Any company would be lucky to have him on board.”

Courtney D

“Zach's sense of humor is hilarious. He asks a lot questions, as any good writer should. He is also good at writing to the insights of the consumer. Zach is a great addition to any team!

Brad S