CHRISTOPHER MERRIFIELD
Decatur,GA
Summary
Creative executive leader with extensive experience specializing in innovative storytelling and strategic brand communications. Proven expertise in creative direction, writing, producing, leadership, strategy, and team mentorship, resulting in emotional, award-winning, original content that enhances audience engagement and brand perception across various platforms.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner & Executive Creative Director
OBAN LLC
Atlanta, USA
04.2007 - Current
- Directed and produced original film, video, and live event productions for diverse audiences.
- Developed creative marketing strategies that resulted in successful campaign outcomes.
- Led cross-functional teams to ensure cohesive execution of branding initiatives.
- Collaborated with clients to establish vision and define project objectives.
- Managed budgets and resources effectively across multiple concurrent projects.
- Mentored junior staff in visual design, copywriting, and video production techniques.
- Monitored industry trends to maintain competitive advantage in marketplace.
- Presented innovative concepts to stakeholders and executive leadership for approval.
Senior Creative Director
HARTMANN STUDIOS
Atlanta, USA
04.2013 - 11.2022
- Directed creative strategy for Fortune 500 clients, delivering impactful multimedia projects annually.
- Designed work that communicated brand narrative and goals effectively.
- Led cross-functional teams of 10-15 to execute complex media on tight timelines.
- Transformed internal communications strategy, boosting employee engagement by [X]%, winning [specific award].
- Pioneered innovation in storytelling, setting new studio standards for executive presentations.
- Directed documentary feature on [subject], achieving [specific achievement].
Vice President of Creative
TURNER CLASSIC MOVIES
Atlanta, USA
03.1994 - 04.2007
- Directed original productions, branding, visual identity, and promotional media for premier classic film destination.
- Managed creative department of 25+ writers, producers, and designers, delivering over 350 pieces annually.
- Facilitated cross-functional meetings to enhance project alignment and communication.
- Championed initiatives to foster innovation and adaptability within teams.
- Produced and directed original documentaries featuring notable figures such as Martin Scorsese and Meryl Streep.
- Conceived and executed live film shoots and broadcast events for audiences in the U.S. and Europe.
- Created signature opening title sequences for successful film series.
- Established TCM's influential creative voice and visual identity in classic film presentation.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English/Film
Georgia State University
Atlanta, GA01.1989
Skills
- Visionary leadership
- Creative direction expertise
- Creative ideation and execution
- Mentorship and team building
- Strategic development
- Client relations and collaboration
- Filmmaking and documentary production
- Scriptwriting and storytelling
- Visual design for narratives
- Event production expertise
- Brand communication strategies
- Marketing in entertainment sector
- Technical skills proficiency
- Video content production
- Brand strategy formulation
- Innovative concept development
- Persuasive writing methods
Awards
- Multiple Promax and BDA Awards
- New York Film Festival Awards, CTAM Awards
- MUSE Creative Awards as Platinum Winners for the Best Corporate Event and Best B2B Event
Personal Information
Title: Executive Creative Director | Writer | Producer | Filmmaker | Strategist | Music Director
Timeline
Senior Creative Director
HARTMANN STUDIOS
04.2013 - 11.2022
Owner & Executive Creative Director
OBAN LLC
04.2007 - Current
Vice President of Creative
TURNER CLASSIC MOVIES
03.1994 - 04.2007
Bachelor of Arts - English/Film
Georgia State University