The Cre8tors, founded by Dani Jackson Smith, has brought industry exec Jenny Lumpkin aboard as partner, marking a new era in the company’s growth and development. Together, Jackson Smith and Lumpkin are set to amplify The Cre8tors’ mission of building partnerships that connect brands with communities, through artistic talent.
Jackson Smith launched The Cre8tors with a vision to serve as a trusted strategic partner, helping brands and agencies foster innovative creative partnerships that drive impact and culturally resonate. Under Jackson-Smith and Lumpkin’s leadership, the company will strive to deliver transformative projects across the advertising, entertainment, fashion, and technology industries, by connecting brands with their expansive roster of talent, from social influencers to production companies, creative technologists and experiential studios. Acting as business development partners, strategists and curators, The Cre8tors brings together the right creative minds to bridge art, culture, and community.
“Jenny’s addition to The Cre8tors marks a moment of growth and possibility,” said Jackson-Smith. “Her ability to connect clients with exceptional talent strengthens our commitment to delivering partnerships that turn bold visions into reality.”
Lumpkin shared, “The Cre8tors is more than a platform for talent–it’s a bridge between creativity and community,” said Lumpkin. “Dani and I share a vision for empowering brands with authentic connections that resonate deeply. I’m thrilled to help shape the next chapter of this journey.”
Prior to founding The Creators, Jackson Smith rose to prominence at agencies like Leo Burnett, Havas, and Edelman. As VP of influence at Edelman, she spearheaded partnerships for brands such as Starbucks, Noxzema, Del Monte, Barilla, and Pivotal Ventures. In her role as VP of DEI & multicultural marketing, Jackson Smith developed groundbreaking cultural strategies for Foot Locker and Church & Dwight, ensuring that campaigns resonated with diverse audiences. As a sr. producer, she led experiential projects for brands including Kellogg’s, Nintendo, and Samsung. Jackson Smith’s career has garnered her multiple accolades, including Clios, Addy’s, an ADCOLOR Rockstar Award and a Chicago Ad Federation Rising Star award.
Lumpkin is a celebrated global production consultant known for facilitating partnerships between the likes of Activision, Meta, Google and Toyota with top-tier and high-impact creative talent. Lumpkin previously held roles as the global director of production at Laird and Good Company, executive producer at The Mill (Chicago and New York) and business development director of Quriosity Productions. Lumpkin prides herself on being a ‘Lift as You Climb’ leader, empowering teams to perform at their fullest potential. As an active industry volunteer and mentor, Lumpkin works with the AICP organizing events like the AICP Women’s Forum in NYC and Chicago. This year will mark her 9th consecutive year of producing the AICP Chicago show.
Under Jackson Smith’s leadership, the Cre8tors has grown steadily, launching initiatives like BedStuy Family Photo Day in New York and XL Fest in Chicago, both entering their third year. With Lumpkin joining as a partner, The Cre8tors is set to expand its roster and geographic reach, representing talent across the U.S. and internationally.
Looking ahead, The Cre8tors is poised to redefine creative talent management. By expanding its roster with creators from emerging disciplines like XR and immersive storytelling, The Cre8tors will continue to help brands launch culturally resonant projects, secure top-tier creative partnerships, and deliver measurable business impact.
