Justin Young
Muskegon,MI
Summary
Insightful and results-driven Brand Strategy Leader with 15+ years of experience leading end-to-end brand development, positioning, and campaign execution across B2B and B2C sectors. Proven ability to align brand strategy with business objectives, influence cross-functional stakeholders, and leverage consumer insights to drive growth. Strategic thinker with a passion for storytelling, data-informed decision-making, and elevating brand experiences.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Brand Strategist
New School – Marketing Agency
Muskegon, MI
07.2020 - Current
- Identified market gaps through brand and competitive research, guiding brand strategy and positioning for clients across multiple industries.
- Oversaw branding initiatives including naming, visual identity, voice, and brand standards for both new and revitalized brands.
- Partnered with creative and digital teams to execute campaigns aligned with brand positioning and business objectives.
- Delivered on-time, on-budget execution of brand development projects, managing internal staff and external vendors.
- Contributed to executive agency leadership, providing insights to influence agency direction and client strategy.
- Key Achievements
- Led rebranding and strategic repositioning efforts for 25+ clients, increasing competitive market visibility.
- Supported product innovation and market launches with tailored brand narratives and GTM strategies.
- Successfully integrated 750+ billboard designs into campaign strategies without project disruption.
Senior Manager, Brand Development & Operations
IGNITE – Marketing Agency
Grand Rapids, MI
01.2013 - 07.2020
- Directed a team executing a proprietary branding process incorporating consumer research, data analysis, and brand identity development.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive marketing plans based on identified brand opportunities and audience insights.
- Managed agency operations, timelines, and budgets for 100+ clients in B2B and B2C markets.
- Oversaw creative production processes and ensured alignment with strategic brand direction.
- Key Achievements
- Maintained long-term brand strategy for a $5M revenue client, driving year-over-year marketing investment growth.
- Improved efficiency and creative output across multi-channel campaigns, including web, print, and out-of-home.
Creative Production Manager
Ydeas – Advertising Agency
Grand Rapids, MI
08.2008 - 09.2010
- Oversaw creative project workflow and traffic systems across departments.
- Ensured high-quality deliverables through hands-on vendor management and QA processes.
- Collaborated with internal creative and marketing teams to meet tight deadlines and budget parameters.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Ski Area Business Management
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MIAssociate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts
Culinary Institute of Michigan (Baker College)
Muskegon, MISkills
- Brand Strategy & Positioning
- Consumer Insights & Market Research
- Integrated Marketing Campaigns
- Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- Product Innovation Support
- Go-To-Market Planning
- Project & Vendor Management
- Creative Production Oversight
- Data-Driven Decision-Making
- Tools: Asana, Semrush, InDesign, Google Workspace, WebTrax
Certification
Asana Ambassador
ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
- Former agency owner with oversight of 150+ client projects, managing marketing budgets between $80K–$425K annually.
- Expert in building strategic narratives that align brand, audience, and business goals.
- Adept at navigating fast-paced, matrixed environments while building strong relationships with cross-functional teams.
Timeline
Lead Brand Strategist
New School – Marketing Agency
07.2020 - Current
Senior Manager, Brand Development & Operations
IGNITE – Marketing Agency
01.2013 - 07.2020
Creative Production Manager
Ydeas – Advertising Agency
08.2008 - 09.2010
Bachelor of Science - Ski Area Business Management
Northern Michigan University
Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts
Culinary Institute of Michigan (Baker College)
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