Production house Durable Goods has signed director Ben Chappell for U.S. commercial representation. He had previously been handled by ONE at Optimus. Chapppell’s extensive body of work includes spots for such brands as Whole Foods, Walmart, UPS, McDonald’s, Sony, Footlocker and Crystal Light, as well as music videos for artists including Miley Cyrus, Rick Ross, Nas, Miranda Lambert, Arctic Monkeys, and The Beach Boys. Chappell brings a versatile perspective to his work, drawing from his experience as a DP and creative strategy expertise gleaned by being a part of the creative team that launched the first eBay campaign out of 72andSunny.
Rebecca Wray, exec producer of Venice-based Durable Goods, said, “Ben has a natural way with talent that comes through effortlessly in his work. He has experience in multiple mediums, including AR, FB Live, Hidden Camera and Experiential, in addition to traditional spot work which I think makes him a unique commodity positioned to deliver complete campaigns. ”
Chappell related, “Durable Goods and I enjoy working in a similar manner. They are nimble and very hands-on and that is the kind of atmosphere I thrive in. Their roster is carefully curated and I’m really looking forward to seeing the type of work we can create together.”
Chappell graduated with a B.A. in Film from DePaul University in Chicago and broke into the industry as an assistant editor where he was introduced to commercial production. He got his start as a director while helming music videos for musician friends and bands, which propelled him to notoriety with some of his videos racking up millions of views online. He quickly made the transition into commercial projects, learning the ropes hands-on as both a DP and director. A music lover with a deep appreciation for traditional film, Chappell found directing to be the perfect fusion of his passions. He has been immersed in the creative space his entire life, spending his childhood days developing film and observing his portrait photographer father’s creative process.
Chappell is currently working on an experimental live music feature that artistically stitches together the reunion of the band The Last Shadow Puppets, featuring the lead singer of Arctic Monkeys, Alex Turner. The project is slated to release in 2018.
The Many Hires Jeremiah Wassom As Group Creative Director
Independent agency The Many has added Jeremiah Wassom as group creative director.
Wassom most recently worked a decade at Deutsch LA where, as SVP/creative director, he led the Taco Bell account and won new business for the agency. His agency past also includes AKQA and TBWAChiatDay. His creative work has touched the QSR, video games, automotive, fashion, and culture brand sectors. He also served eight years with the United States Marine Corps.
“Throughout his career, Jeremiah has helmed work that has not only made me personally jealous but has consistently pushed brands to show up in memorable and innovative ways,” said Josh Paialii, head of creative at The Many. “One look at his body of work and you will see his passion for storytelling and craft has raised the bar for entire categories, driving participation with many brands’ most loyal fans. Beyond being a world-class creative director and maker, Wassom is a proven team player and strategic thought leader. He’ll be a great addition to the leadership team at The Many working across all accounts. His role will be immediately felt as he guides and supports each of the creative leads in the department.”
A 20-year creative with agency, brand, and freelance experience, Wassom has forged a creative approach which focuses on crafting engaging connections rather than simply make ads. He sees the need for advertising to mean more, not simply do more.
The Many believes that true business growth is made possible by harnessing the power of participation and partners with brands to forge deeper connections with consumers, cultivate trust and loyalty, and maximize marketing spend and execution. The agency is built around a flexible model that offers a suite of capabilities, including... Read More