National independent agency 22squared has created two new director positions to lead expertise and promote growth in the tech and production arenas. Filling those roles are Kris McDermott and Jim Issa as director of technology and director of 22Pictures, respectively. Both McDermott and Issa will report to 22squared president Brandon Murphy.
McDermott comes directly from the San Francisco headquarters of software company Atlassian, where she led M&A integration. Prior, McDermott managed mobile product development at WalmartLabs and served as an engineer for Moxie. She started her career as a designer at Turner Broadcasting in Atlanta, and holds a degree in Film, Video and New Media from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. As director of technology, McDermott will develop the long-term vision for 22squared’s technology capabilities and increase the velocity of client-driven tech solutions.
McDermott commented, “22squared is always looking to evolve. The next chapter places technology at the center of their business. I’m joining the team to build a roadmap that not only magnifies their existing capabilities, but also helps them compete differently in the market.”
Issa joins from BBDO Atlanta, where he was sr. producer and director. At BBDO he partnered with top leadership to build the agency’s in-house production department. Prior, he was with Turner Studios and Zuma Films, in a variety of top production roles. Issa holds a degree in English and Theater from Georgia State University. As director of 22Pictures, Issa will lead the agency’s internal production house, which for the last year has expanded scope and services as a nimble, innovative and cost-effective resource for quality video content. 22Pictures is a full-service production company, with a separate cost-center and talent. It creates high-caliber video for all channels and a variety of brands and clients.
Issa noted, “With the proliferation of social channels and digital experiences across multiple devices and platforms, agencies need to create much more video content, while maintaining a quality consumer experience. The appetite for social content provides an exciting challenge, which 22squared recognized, and an opportunity, which 22Pictures seized. I am excited to build out 22Pictures and provide clients and brands premium video creative, with speed, smarts and cost-efficiency.”
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