Geoff Cottrill

“Geoff Cottrill and I worked together for over eight years when he was the CMO at Converse. Geoff is a creative and marketing visionary with an infectious energy and passion for building great brands and exceptional consumer engagements. He is a fearless leader, always pushing the boundaries of what can be built, and always asking “what if?” and “why not?” Geoff is the kind of leader who makes those working for him strive to do the best work of their careers. He is encouraging, thoughtful and appreciative but also sets the kind of high standards that make everyone deliver their all. He gave us the gift of creative freedom and the encouragement to go bold, to think of something that no one has ever done before, and to actually build it together. Being able to work under his leadership was career-changing for me, because of the exposure I got to the most superlative creative experiences and opportunities. In addition to being a big personality and a motivator on a grand scale, Geoff is also someone who encourages you on an individual level, and supports your personal career growth and goals. I put together a presentation for him once about a stretch assignment I wanted to do for the Nike Foundation, to help girls in Ethiopia. I was nervous because I would be gone from my regular job for the whole summer, and he’d still be footing the bill. Before I even finished pitching it to him, he was like, “yes, you have to do this, this is perfect for you” and he saw to it that everything was in place to make it work. I’ll always be incredibly thankful that he supported this opportunity for me. Geoff’s passion, tireless motivation, insightful creative strategy and ability to identify and recognize talent around him means that every project he touches is beautiful, meaningful, and super cool. His connections to artists, designers, musicians and cultural movers and shakers means that he’s always in-the-know and ready to make an impact with whatever his next project or partnership may be. I learned so much from him and I know he has so much to offer to the industry as a whole and to the individuals he leads and mentors. Thanks for always believing in me, Geoff!”

“I can't say enough good things about Geoff. He is a consummate marketer, driven by doing what is right for consumers and each business he touches. He is a realist, a humble listener and powerful leader of organizations and people. Geoff pushes the boundaries of marketing innovation and cultural strategy. He makes you want to work harder, better and his passion is noting short of one in a million. I have never met anyone else like him. I can promise you the same. ”