Michelle Hoagland
Senior Art Director and Designer

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate enough to have worked on many exciting projects and collaborated with incredibly talented people including writers, strategists, photographers, directors, and editors – all possessing some of the brightest creative minds. I have concepted with, managed, and hired creative teams responsible for building brands, raising awareness, and increasing sales, consistently delivering on the strategy. I have also partnered with stakeholders, business leaders, and clients, guiding them to decisions that have helped their businesses flourish.

My career began in the agency world, where I worked on global brands like BP, General Mills, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car; national brands like the University of Chicago and Union Leasing; and local brands like Lettuce Entertain You and Chicago Tribune – and many more. I have helped my agencies win new business or creative awards and am so proud of the work I did.

Transitioning to in-house marketing departments, I used my expertise to create world-class creative for companies like Sasser Family Holdings and Valtech. At these companies, I have built brands for start-ups, rebranded and modernized long-established companies, and helped increase global awareness.

At each organization where I worked, or as the principal of my small agency, I have participated in brand research and strategic sessions, concepted campaigns, worked tirelessly on broadcast productions, designed a wide range of digital projects, and mentored junior creatives. In addition to being responsible for the art direction and design, I transitioned into leadership, managing teams of freelancers, on-staff creatives, and agency partners.  

These experiences taught me the importance of partnership and fostering an environment based on creativity and trust. These invaluable lessons were gifts that helped me be the best every single day.

When not at work, you can find me practicing yoga, going to too many movies, and exploring as much of Chicago as I can.