KURT FRIES // EVP //ECD
Kurt's 32-year career began at Central Academy in Cincinnati. Upon graduation he packed up the car and headed to Chicago. Inspired by the city and challenged by the clients, he’s never looked back and now calls himself a Cubs fan.
Of the many stops at Chicago agencies, TLK, DDB, Leo Burnett, FCB and now McGarryBowen it’s at McGarry, where his team numbers 30 plus, that he really has developed and honed his leadership skills. His new business track record continues to impress with a success rate north of 50% including JCP, BCBS Association, Anthem BCBS, and Jewelers Mutual.
Kurt has the passion and leadership that rallies internal players and clients as well, leading to not only great creative but effective creative. Having won numerous awards it’s the Effies that impress him most - building brands and business.
His advertising philosophy is a mix of creativity and human understanding that translates to every medium and many countries. His image-based work is the best in its category and his retail work redefines what retail can be if someone cares.
While his advertising reel shows his strategic and creative side, to truly understand his artistic soul visit his photography section.