Raleigh-based independent agency Baldwin& hired Jesús “Chui” Díaz (pictured above) as creative director, effective immediately.
Díaz will initially focus on the agency’s Krispy Kreme, Cree, Videri Chocolate Factory and Ponysaurus Brewing Co. accounts, as well as some unspecified new business accounts. He joins Baldwin& from Walt Disney’s in-house agency, Yellow Shoes, where he served as senior art director. Prior to joining Yellow Shoes he spent three years as a senior creative with Energy BBDO, working with clients including Bayer, Bud Light, Frito Lays, SC Johnson, Wrigley, Pearle Vision and Quaker.
Baldwin& also promoted creative director Jen Matthews (pictured left) to the newly-created role of design director. Matthews and Díaz will report to executive creative director Russell Dodson, who joined the agency in that role last March as agency co-founder David Baldwin transitioned to CEO.
“You hear about creatives like Chui existing all the time, but rarely see them in the wild. He’s like sasquatch. But less hairy,” Dodson said in a statement. “He’s a great human being first, and a creative force second, and every one of our employees and clients will be blessed to have him on the team.”
“Some of the most emotionally resonant advertising was created without words in stories that touch on universal experiences and feelings, added Díaz. “My sensibility is perfect for Baldwin&’s clients and mission. We’re excited to be in Raleigh, this city is booming.”
Additionally, Baldwin& promoted Jerry Bodrie from co-director, account management to the newly-created position of general manager and Erin Bredemann from co-director, account management to director of business development, also a new position.
“We have a lot of momentum right now, and Jerry and Erin are officially going to be wearing much more specific hats around organization as we build into the future,” Baldwin said in a statement.