Experienced brand and creative strategy leader, with a strong foundation in digital marketing, and a proven history of writing and leading award-winning, effective work, across a wide range of categories. Launched, built and reinvented some of the world’s best brands; including Apple, Bacardi, Bank of Scotland, Bing, GE, Gillette, Grey Goose, Guinness, Holiday Inn, HSBC, Sandy Hook Promise, SAP, Wells Fargo, and others.

Developed work that's been recognized for its commercial effect by the Effies. Developed work that's been recognized for its strategic smarts by the Jay Chiats and ARF. Developed work that’s been recognized for its creative quality by D&AD, Cannes Lions, One Show and others. And developed work that's been recognized for its cultural impact by the MoMA, the Emmys and TED.

Strong international perspective gained living and working from Dublin, Sheffield, London, Istanbul, New York, San Francisco and LA. Created, managed and led diverse, high impact teams of local, regional and global planners. And held thought leadership, training and mentorship roles in every position up to Group Director, Brand Strategy at Apple.

My thinking is guided by three fundamental beliefs; creativity is the most powerful force in business, ideas are nothing without effect and every point of interaction with a brand is both valuable and vulnerable, an opportunity to either build or diminish its equity. My planning method centers on the intersection of company, customer, category and cultural truths, in the service of work that is authentic, relevant, original and timely. And I try to bring three things to every project and team I lead; rigor, richness and the kind of reduction that can inspire powerful brands that move and breakthrough work that works.

Gordon Gerard McLean

Irish. English. Turkish. Americanish.

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