Gerry Graf
Gerry Graf is one of the most acclaimed creative directors in the advertising industry, best known for co-founding Joan Creative (now operating as Joan), an independent creative agency based in New York. Graf has built a reputation over decades for producing culturally resonant, award-winning work that blends wit, humanity, and strategic insight. His distinctive creative voice has shaped campaigns for some of the world's most recognizable brands, earning him a place among the industry's elite creative leaders. Before founding Joan, Graf held senior creative roles at some of advertising's most storied agencies. He served as Global Chief Creative Officer at Saatchi & Saatchi and before that was a creative leader at TBWA\Chiat\Day and Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH), where he produced landmark work including celebrated campaigns for brands like Skittles, Starburst, and FedEx. His work consistently pushed creative boundaries and garnered top honors at Cannes Lions, the Clios, and other major industry award shows. At Joan, Graf has continued to champion bold, independent creative thinking, building an agency culture that prioritizes originality and craft. Joan has grown into a respected independent shop known for its creative ambition and diverse client roster. Graf remains a prominent voice in advertising on the importance of creative bravery, independent agency culture, and the enduring power of ideas in an increasingly data-driven industry.
Last updated Jun 11, 2026 by ATDb automated enrichment · Connections updated Jun 15, 2026
- Years in industry
- 30 years
Bio
Gerry Graf is one of the most acclaimed creative directors in the advertising industry, best known for co-founding Joan Creative (now operating as Joan), an independent creative agency based in New York. Graf has built a reputation over decades for producing culturally resonant, award-winning work that blends wit, humanity, and strategic insight. His distinctive creative voice has shaped campaigns for some of the world's most recognizable brands, earning him a place among the industry's elite creative leaders. Before founding Joan, Graf held senior creative roles at some of advertising's most storied agencies. He served as Global Chief Creative Officer at Saatchi & Saatchi and before that was a creative leader at TBWA\Chiat\Day and Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH), where he produced landmark work including celebrated campaigns for brands like Skittles, Starburst, and FedEx. His work consistently pushed creative boundaries and garnered top honors at Cannes Lions, the Clios, and other major industry award shows. At Joan, Graf has continued to champion bold, independent creative thinking, building an agency culture that prioritizes originality and craft. Joan has grown into a respected independent shop known for its creative ambition and diverse client roster. Graf remains a prominent voice in advertising on the importance of creative bravery, independent agency culture, and the enduring power of ideas in an increasingly data-driven industry.
Career
Global Chief Creative Officer
Saatchi & Saatchi · 2012-2014
Chief Creative Officer
Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH) New York · 2009-2012
Executive Creative Director
TBWA\Chiat\Day · 2000s
Creative Director
BBDO · 1990s
Expertise & education
Expertise
Education
- Syracuse University
Speaking topics
Recognition
Notable achievements
- Co-founded Joan Creative (Joan), one of the most respected independent creative agencies in the US
- Created iconic Skittles 'Touch the Rainbow' campaign widely regarded as one of the most creative ad campaigns of its era
- Multiple Cannes Lions Grand Prix winner across career
- Led creative at Saatchi & Saatchi as Global Chief Creative Officer
- Produced celebrated FedEx campaigns recognized for humor and cultural impact