San Francisco agency Heat announced the hiring of Jonathan Byrne as creative director. In the position, Byrne will work with well-established clients such as Kendall-Jackson wines and esurance, while also taking creative lead on some new business ventures this autumn.
Byrne joins the agency from DDB California, where he has served as creative director since joining in the spring of 2014. Prior to DDB, Byrne spent nearly a decade at Venables Bell & Partners. He joined VB&P as an art director in October 2005, following a three and a half year stint in the same position at TDA Boulder, later earning a promotion to associate creative director. Over the course of his career, Byrne has created award-winning work for brands such as Reebok, Audi, Slim Jim and Orville Redenbacher’s.
“JB is an advertising veteran who can shape and protect the big ideas while not being afraid of innovation and new mediums,” said Heat founder and executive creative director Steve Stone. “He puts in work, inspires, and is a team player. We’re really excited he’s joined us here at Heat.”
In addition to Byrne, the agency also announced a slew of other hires, including senior writer Jon Korn, social media manager Tristan Thornburgh, social media specialist Tessa Paneri, social media coordinator Megan Moran and production designer Zach Moranville.