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Atlanta-based agency Metaleap Creative has announced the addition of Marshall McKinney as its inaugural creative director in residence.
In this new role, McKinney will collaborate with Metaleap on a variety of projects, focusing on clients in the brand, publication, and hospitality sectors.
With a 16-year tenure as creative director at magazine Garden & Gun, McKinney brings his expertise in design, storytelling, and strategic thinking to the agency’s already impressive team.
His extensive career includes an impressive list of accolades, such as five American Society of Magazine Editors awards, a Society of Publication Designers Brand of the Year award, and a James Beard Award, spotlighting his ability to merge creative vision with strategic impact.
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In an exclusive statement to DesignRush, McKinney expressed how he was looking for a place where he "could continue to explore, ask big questions, and push [his] creativity further."
"Metaleap offers a rare chance to work on a variety of exciting projects across industries like hospitality, food and drink, fashion, and more, alongside a team that executes at the highest level. It’s not about sitting in a cubicle — it’s about having a creative canvas to make something truly special," he added.
Marshall continued, saying that the most rewarding part of the creative process is understanding the client's vision, values, and challenges, before crafting solutions that elevate their brand.
"I’m especially excited to dive into legacy brands — whether in the outdoor space, hospitality, or even bourbon — and help them navigate their next chapter. I can’t wait to work with clients to explore new directions, push boundaries, and tell their stories in fresh ways with impact."
Since it was founded in 2001, Metaleap Creative has established itself as a leader in design, crafting impactful branding, packaging, and publication solutions that resonate with audiences.
The agency’s work can be seen in top retail spaces like Anthropologie, Target, and Whole Foods, as well as on the pages of GQ and The New York Times.
On McKinney's Appointment
Metaleap Creative Founder and Executive Creative Director José Reyes echoed McKinney's enthusiasm, highlighting the former's exceptional design philosophy.
"There are a lot of talented designers out there, but Marshall is a brilliant creative who sees design as a means to solve complex problems, and he’s willing to take the time to implement ideas that prioritize longevity in order to be effective,” Reyes said.
"At Metaleap, we are committed to building brands that endure in a world of ‘next,’ and few people are willing to run alongside that design philosophy. Marshall shares this perspective with our team," he added.
McKinney’s addition reflects Metaleap’s dedication to expanding its influence by merging design innovation with strategic brand storytelling.
As the new year begins, many agencies seize the opportunity to appoint leaders, recognizing that fresh perspectives and strategic vision are crucial for navigating the challenges and opportunities of the year ahead.
This timing allows businesses to align their leadership with annual goals, ensuring they are well-equipped to drive innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and respond effectively to market dynamics.
Previously, VML made a similar move by appointing Eric Campbell as its first North American CEO.
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