The Martin Agency Names W+K Vet As New ECD

“Picking the right creative leadership is the biggest gift or hinderance I can bring to the agency. It has an indelible impact on what we make, who we are and who we become,” said Martin Agency CCO Danny Robinson who was elevated to the position in mid-August.

Ashley Marshall, a former Wieden+Kennedy CD, being tapped for ECD duties at Martin is the agency’s first major announcement since teasing seven new-biz wins and 45 open positions on its social channels.

Marshall joins Droga5 vet Jerry Hoak and Robinson in managing the creative department. With nearly 20 years’ experience—Ashley’s led creative efforts for Old Spice, Facebook, AT&T, Skittles, Secret deodorant and more. Her most notable campaigns include Facebook’s first-ever Super Bowl spot, “More Together,” and “Mama Claus.”

“I wanted a partner who I’d be jealous of and inspired by,” said Hoak of Marshall. “Go look at Ashley’s portfolio site and have a scroll. And keep scrolling. She did all of those things—and the Lionel Richie Starburst spot, too. She immediately makes us better.”

“The best work out there doesn’t feel like work at all, but it does work,” shares Marshall. “Martin’s made some of the most iconic advertising in history—and I’m thrilled to be a part of extending its impact.”

Marshall’s early days at Martin will be focused on getting up to speed on Martin’s client roster.

“I can’t wait to start finding out what keeps our clients up at night, so I can start helping them overcome their unique challenges with equally unique ideas. For me, happiness is when my creatives are excited about the work and my clients are getting their 40 winks.”

And, Marshall isn’t the only new face at Martin:

• CD Alberto Orte, previously at 72&Sunny, is relocating from Spain to Virginia to work on Buffalo Wild Wings (worked on ESPN, Google, Uber, NFL)
• CD Allison Rude is joining Martin’s CarMax team after stints with MullenLowe and Modernista (worked on E*Trade, jetBlue, American Greetings)

The Martin Agency is bucking industry trends marked by contractions and layoffs with expansions and promotions. The agency attributes its success to a diverse leadership team and a highly-adaptive strategy.

Robinson’s also made a round of promotions in the Account Leadership department since his shift from chief client officer—signaling Martin’s long-term growth strategy:

• Jordan Muse as SVP, Managing Director of Account Leadership
• Walker Teele as SVP, Managing Director of Open Architecture
• Britta Dougherty as SVP, Global Managing Director to manage existing international accounts while extending Martin’s global presence

All newly-appointed managing directors will report into Martin President Chris Mumford.