Recommendations
James Buonantuono, Group Creative Director at Lippe Taylor
James reported directly to Tina in 2022
I had the privilege of having Tina as my CCO at Lippe Taylor for 3+ years. She was the main reason I made the jump from agency machine to start up. As a mentor, as a leader, as a problem solver and builder-she’s incredible. She built a team out of nothing and within two years we went from obscurity to award winning. Throughout she led with passion, grace, compassion and an unflinching belief in her team. I valued her tutelage and the friendship we built through the chaos of going from 3 creatives to 45. If you want to build, if you want to inspire and grow your creative offering: Tina Cervera.
Cindy Park, VP, Creative Director at Lippe Taylor
Cindy reported directly to Tina in 2022 as well as at VaynerMedia in 2015
It's truly a rare sight to find a female creative leader like Tina in the world of advertising. I've had the privilege of working with Tina in two different agencies, at two different stages of my career. Tina has been my north star in my personal growth and I was able to create a personal mission to become a creative lead who is as strong of a leader like Tina, who is equally compassionate and empathetic to the people who work with her, but also supporting and creating an environment where creative individuals can truly shine to their fullest potential.
Tina is able to recognize people's strengths and potential for growth, while pushing to elevate the work, and problem solving the challenges that are given. Tina is able to push for creating flawless execution, while allowing the team to keep ownership of the project. Tina has been involved in creating the creative department from bottom up, really focusing in on the needs of the company, while focusing on hiring the best talent around culture and diversity, leading to award winning work and people who genuinely wants to be better at what they do.
Tina is an inspiration to creatives in all stages of their career, and truly a marvelous creative leader.It's truly a rare sight to find a female creative leader like Tina in the world of advertising. I've had the privilege of working with Tina in two different agencies, at two different stages of my career. Tina has been my north star in my personal growth and I was able to create a personal mission to become a creative lead who is as strong of a leader like Tina, who is equally compassionate and empathetic to the people who work with her, but also supporting and creating an environment where creative individuals can truly shine to their fullest potential. Tina is able to recognize people's strengths and potential for growth, while pushing to elevate the work, and problem solving the challenges that are given. Tina is able to push for creating flawless execution, while allowing the team to keep ownership of the project. Tina has been involved in creating the creative department from bottom up, really focusing in on the needs of the company, while focusing on hiring the best talent around culture and diversity, leading to award winning work and people who genuinely wants to be better at what they do. Tina is an inspiration to creatives in all stages of their career, and truly a marvelous creative leader.
Kelsey Shalvoy
Associate Creative Director at Lippe Taylor
Kelsey reported directly to Tina in 2022
I had the pleasure of working under Tina's leadership as CCO for three years. She is an exceptional leader, who really cares about her team members. She took the time to mentor and guide me, always looking for opportunities to develop my skills, advance my career and help me grow as a creative.
Other former coworkers and friends have said it better below, so I will just say, Tina is truly the best and any team would be lucky to have her.I had the pleasure of working under Tina's leadership as CCO for three years. She is an exceptional leader, who really cares about her team members. She took the time to mentor and guide me, always looking for opportunities to develop my skills, advance my career and help me grow as a creative. Other former coworkers and friends have said it better below, so I will just say, Tina is truly the best and any team would be lucky to have her.
Destiny K. Chambers, VP, Head of Marketing at Lippe Taylor
Tina was senior to Destiny K. but didn't manage Destiny K.
Tina Cervera and I worked together for two years at Lippe Taylor Group, and I have learned so much from her excellence in leadership and creative ideation. Tina is passionate about creative work and it shows in how she speaks to projects whether in front of crowd, clients or colleagues. Equivalently, she is a fighter for the growth and opportunities of her subordinates and women of all backgrounds within the industry. Tina left a lasting impression on myself and the organization with her professionalism and partnership. I look forward to seeing her continued industry strides.
Tyler Seecof profile picture, ACD at Lippe Taylor
Tyler reported directly to Tina in 2022
Tina’s eye for Creative talent is unmatched. She puts a lot of care into building a smart, thoughtful, and compassionate department. Without fail, Tina finds Creatives who are masters of craft and fueled by strategy. Creatives with unlimited potential. (Clearly it shows by all the awards we rack up!)
To Tina, however, a strong team isn’t just about the work; it’s about compatibility and chemistry. Tina looks beyond the resume to carefully consider how each team member would work together, ensuring there's a true sense of community and collaboration in day-to-day operations. I can confidently say that I’ve worked with some of the best Creatives (and overall humans) in my career under Tina’s wings.
In that same vein, Tina truly champions an inclusive culture. As a queer Creative, I cannot express how much I appreciate that Tina fiercely invests underrepresented talent — LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, women, etc. I always felt safe and empowered to be my authentic self with her. Feeling safe, having a platform, and being able to hear other perspectives only make the work better.
I am so grateful to know Tina. Anyone would be lucky to work with her. Truly cannot wait to see what's next!Tina’s eye for Creative talent is unmatched. She puts a lot of care into building a smart, thoughtful, and compassionate department. Without fail, Tina finds Creatives who are masters of craft and fueled by strategy. Creatives with unlimited potential. (Clearly it shows by all the awards we rack up!) To Tina, however, a strong team isn’t just about the work; it’s about compatibility and chemistry. Tina looks beyond the resume to carefully consider how each team member would work together, ensuring there's a true sense of community and collaboration in day-to-day operations. I can confidently say that I’ve worked with some of the best Creatives (and overall humans) in my career under Tina’s wings. In that same vein, Tina truly champions an inclusive culture. As a queer Creative, I cannot express how much I appreciate that Tina fiercely invests underrepresented talent — LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, women, etc. I always felt safe and empowered to be my authentic self with her. Feeling safe, having a platform, and being able to hear other perspectives only make the work better. I am so grateful to know Tina. Anyone would be lucky to work with her. Truly cannot wait to see what's next!
Luke Delahanty, Senior Video Supervisor at Lippe Taylor
Tina managed Luke directly in 2022
Tina's ability to assemble a team is akin to the best casting directors in Hollywood, bar none. I can honestly say that the Creatives at Lippe Taylor and Twelvenote are not only some of the most talented people with whom I've worked, but also some of the genuinely best personalities, collaborators, and teammates.
Tina leads by example, engendering an environment of cooperation, empathy, and support. Whether it's a brainstorm, project, or career-pathing, she encourages learning and growth amongst her team instead of expected or derivative processes. She brings the best out of people because she can envision that potential and help its manifestation. She possesses a deep reservoir of industry experience, but also hard skills in design, branding, and typography that she is more than willing to wield in order to raise-up and aid in the success of those around her.
I had the pleasure of witnessing Tina build an in-house Creative team from scratch at Lippe Taylor Group for her entire tenure - first through glimpses as an occasional freelancer, and then full-time the past three years when she brought me on board to grow LTG's video offering. The immense number of awards, new business, and team growth and retention speaks for itself. You'd be lucky to be brought onto a team by Tina Cervera, and even luckier if you happen across the opportunity to bring her onto your own.Tina's ability to assemble a team is akin to the best casting directors in Hollywood, bar none. I can honestly say that the Creatives at Lippe Taylor and Twelvenote are not only some of the most talented people with whom I've worked, but also some of the genuinely best personalities, collaborators, and teammates. Tina leads by example, engendering an environment of cooperation, empathy, and support. Whether it's a brainstorm, project, or career-pathing, she encourages learning and growth amongst her team instead of expected or derivative processes. She brings the best out of people because she can envision that potential and help its manifestation. She possesses a deep reservoir of industry experience, but also hard skills in design, branding, and typography that she is more than willing to wield in order to raise-up and aid in the success of those around her. I had the pleasure of witnessing Tina build an in-house Creative team from scratch at Lippe Taylor Group for her entire tenure - first through glimpses as an occasional freelancer, and then full-time the past three years when she brought me on board to grow LTG's video offering. The immense number of awards, new business, and team growth and retention speaks for itself. You'd be lucky to be brought onto a team by Tina Cervera, and even luckier if you happen across the opportunity to bring her onto your own.
John Linitz, Senior Art Director at Lippe Taylor
John reported directly to Tina in 2022 as well as at VaynerMEdia in 2015
I’m lucky enough to have been a part of two creative teams Tina has built. She brings a special confidence to everything she does. Tina is immensely talented, and her eye for design is unmatched. She is a visionary who is tapped into the culture of what’s next, and knows how to push creative thinking to the next level. Above all, Tina is a compassionate leader who genuinely cares about her employees. I am a better creative because of her.I’m lucky enough to have been a part of two creative teams Tina has built. She brings a special confidence to everything she does. Tina is immensely talented, and her eye for design is unmatched. She is a visionary who is tapped into the culture of what’s next, and knows how to push creative thinking to the next level. Above all, Tina is a compassionate leader who genuinely cares about her employees. I am a better creative because of her.
Elisabeth Bromberg, Seasoned Brand & Creative Strategist
Elisabeth reported directly to Tina at two agencies
I can say without a doubt that Tina is the best boss I've ever had. After getting to work with her (on a different team) at Vaynermedia, when she reached out about an opportunity to work with her again, I didn't have to think twice. Tina is fierce, brilliant, kind, and leads her teams and their creative and strategic output with passion, expert knowledge, and a mentorship mindset. She challenged me every day to always be better than the day before, and without her guidance, I would be a less developed strategist and manager. Leaving Tina was one of, if not the hardest part of leaving Lippe Taylor, but I'm optimistic that we'll find a way to work with each other for a third time! She's not just a lady boss. She's a boss. Period.I can say without a doubt that Tina is the best boss I've ever had. After getting to work with her (on a different team) at Vaynermedia, when she reached out about an opportunity to work with her again, I didn't have to think twice. Tina is fierce, brilliant, kind, and leads her teams and their creative and strategic output with passion, expert knowledge, and a mentorship mindset. She challenged me every day to always be better than the day before, and without her guidance, I would be a less developed strategist and manager. Leaving Tina was one of, if not the hardest part of leaving Lippe Taylor, but I'm optimistic that we'll find a way to work with each other for a third time! She's not just a lady boss. She's a boss. Period.
Derek Cole, GM at Simmons One Hour Heating & Air
Derek was Tina’s client with Wit + Measure
The changing landscapes of media is no match for Tina because she is on top of it BEFORE it happens! A lot of agencies and creatives are great at being the Monday morning quarterback of what just happened, why it happened, and how you should respond going forward but Tina is the creative you need because she gives you the creative that is CURRENT and NOW, not yesterday. A great person and company to work with and I would wish her success but that is already going to happen because of who she is and who they are at Wit and Measure!The changing landscapes of media is no match for Tina because she is on top of it BEFORE it happens! A lot of agencies and creatives are great at being the Monday morning quarterback of what just happened, why it happened, and how you should respond going forward but Tina is the creative you need because she gives you the creative that is CURRENT and NOW, not yesterday. A great person and company to work with and I would wish her success but that is already going to happen because of who she is and who they are at Wit and Measure!
Maggie Sause, Director of Go To Market at Red Antler
Maggie reported directly to Tina in 2015
Tina embodies the leadership and creative prowess every creative thinker, doer, and maker dreams of being exposed to in their career trajectory. Her patience, her dedication, and her truly inspiring way of managing and empowering teams and the work produced by them in a RAPIDLY changing environment is what built, for lack of better words, a small empire of progressive and thriving craftsmen and women. No matter what the challenge, no matter who the client, she bolstered up the team and the work and tapped into everyone's potential and passion to make it an awesome experience. I count my time with her at VaynerMedia as the most impactful and rejuvenating of my career, and would jump at the chance to partner with her again.
Erin Doyle, Founder / Award Winning Filmmaker and Creative Director
Erin reported directly to Tina in a span of ten years at three agencies
I could write a novel about how wonderful Tina is and it wouldn’t even scratch the surface. She has been my boss and mentor at VaynerMedia for over three years, and made an irreplaceable impact from the moment she started.
Tina is a stand out creative leader. Managing a team that grows from roughly 20 to nearly 200 people in only three years is no easy task, but Tina has done it with a seemingly unshakable calm. She is a master at taking emotion out of management without losing a sense of empathy or humanity, and has been able to scale herself at an impressive rate by teaching those skills down to her team. I have learned an incredible amount from her, and know that every creative leader at VM feels the same way. Beyond that, she’s a great problem solver who is not afraid to take risks or try unconventional solutions to alleviate growing pains. She listens to and takes suggestions from every level, and has built the right amount of structure in the department; rigid enough to create efficiently, but flexible enough that we can evolve when we need to.
From a creative perspective, Tina fosters talent and elevates the work by giving clear, actionable feedback, not forcing her own stamp on a project. This empowerment gives everybody a sense of ownership over their work, and results in happy creatives that produce consistently quality work.
On a personal note, Tina is the kind of strong female leader that every company should have. She supports and fights for other women without alienating men, and commands the respect of everybody around her. I am lucky to have had her as a mentor as I’ve grown from ACD to CD, and I wish I could clone her and give her to every rising woman in a creative industry.I could write a novel about how wonderful Tina is and it wouldn’t even scratch the surface. She has been my boss and mentor at VaynerMedia for over three years, and made an irreplaceable impact from the moment she started. Tina is a stand out creative leader. Managing a team that grows from roughly 20 to nearly 200 people in only three years is no easy task, but Tina has done it with a seemingly unshakable calm. She is a master at taking emotion out of management without losing a sense of empathy or humanity, and has been able to scale herself at an impressive rate by teaching those skills down to her team. I have learned an incredible amount from her, and know that every creative leader at VM feels the same way. Beyond that, she’s a great problem solver who is not afraid to take risks or try unconventional solutions to alleviate growing pains. She listens to and takes suggestions from every level, and has built the right amount of structure in the department; rigid enough to create efficiently, but flexible enough that we can evolve when we need to. From a creative perspective, Tina fosters talent and elevates the work by giving clear, actionable feedback, not forcing her own stamp on a project. This empowerment gives everybody a sense of ownership over their work, and results in happy creatives that produce consistently quality work. On a personal note, Tina is the kind of strong female leader that every company should have. She supports and fights for other women without alienating men, and commands the respect of everybody around her. I am lucky to have had her as a mentor as I’ve grown from ACD to CD, and I wish I could clone her and give her to every rising woman in a creative industry.
Elyse Barton, Creative Director
Elyse reported directly to Tina in 2014
Tina is a creative tour de force, a true leader and visionary. She's built a phenomenal creative department from 18 to 180 employees across four offices in three short years while instilling and maintaining a unique culture—not an easy task with such tremendous growth. And she’s done it all with ease, confidence and grace.
Tina is truly unlike any other ECD I have ever worked with. She is innovative, calm, and most importantly really values each team member. She is invested in making people better, not just at their jobs but as humans. There are no dumb questions and she makes the time to meet, grow, teach and mentor all 180 of us. A rare and amazing quality in advertising.
Over the past year I've learned so much personally and professionally from Tina and couldn't recommend her more. She is the best!Tina is a creative tour de force, a true leader and visionary. She's built a phenomenal creative department from 18 to 180 employees across four offices in three short years while instilling and maintaining a unique culture—not an easy task with such tremendous growth. And she’s done it all with ease, confidence and grace. Tina is truly unlike any other ECD I have ever worked with. She is innovative, calm, and most importantly really values each team member. She is invested in making people better, not just at their jobs but as humans. There are no dumb questions and she makes the time to meet, grow, teach and mentor all 180 of us. A rare and amazing quality in advertising. Over the past year I've learned so much personally and professionally from Tina and couldn't recommend her more. She is the best!
Adriana Nova, Creative Director
Adriana reported directly to Tina in a span of ten years at three agencies
Tina's ability to scale a department, achieve both strategic goals and creative integrity, and skillfully manage relationships with multiple—sometimes opposing—key stakeholders are among the best I have ever seen. However, if pushed to name the quality that sets her apart from other leaders it is, undoubtedly, her ability to effect tremendous growth and professional development with the pitch-perfect amount of guidance and support. It is extremely rare to find a C-level executive whose abundant compassion, tenacity, and congeniality is balanced by an uncompromising drive for excellence in both herself and in others. Tina's singular quality, the one that makes her one of the most dynamic people I have ever worked with, is that she can motivate you to elevate your work to award-winning caliber without sacrificing the personal touch. She expects a great deal from the people who work with and for her but, as a colleague, you are motivated—almost indebted—to deliver because she gives of herself just as much, if not more. Issues big and small are treated with the same level of thoughtfulness and consideration but where Tina shines is how she teaches you, as a leader, to solve those issues on your own by following her example and, when necessary, taking the time to discuss them in-depth until you confident enough to carry out a resolution—be it a campaign, a staffing issue, or procedural quandary. I can give her no higher recommendation; watching her scale VaynerMedia's creative department for the last two years without compromising the company's core values is akin to watching a masterwork of strategy, innovation, and diplomacy unfold. She is a cornerstone of the company, one whose presence and quiet strength can be taken for granted given that she is the ultimate team champion who always wants to credit the group and not shine the spotlight on herself. My apologies, Tina, but...the secret is now out. As it should be.Tina's ability to scale a department, achieve both strategic goals and creative integrity, and skillfully manage relationships with multiple—sometimes opposing—key stakeholders are among the best I have ever seen. However, if pushed to name the quality that sets her apart from other leaders it is, undoubtedly, her ability to effect tremendous growth and professional development with the pitch-perfect amount of guidance and support. It is extremely rare to find a C-level executive whose abundant compassion, tenacity, and congeniality is balanced by an uncompromising drive for excellence in both herself and in others. Tina's singular quality, the one that makes her one of the most dynamic people I have ever worked with, is that she can motivate you to elevate your work to award-winning caliber without sacrificing the personal touch. She expects a great deal from the people who work with and for her but, as a colleague, you are motivated—almost indebted—to deliver because she gives of herself just as much, if not more. Issues big and small are treated with the same level of thoughtfulness and consideration but where Tina shines is how she teaches you, as a leader, to solve those issues on your own by following her example and, when necessary, taking the time to discuss them in-depth until you confident enough to carry out a resolution—be it a campaign, a staffing issue, or procedural quandary. I can give her no higher recommendation; watching her scale VaynerMedia's creative department for the last two years without compromising the company's core values is akin to watching a masterwork of strategy, innovation, and diplomacy unfold. She is a cornerstone of the company, one whose presence and quiet strength can be taken for granted given that she is the ultimate team champion who always wants to credit the group and not shine the spotlight on herself. My apologies, Tina, but...the secret is now out. As it should be.
Aleena Abrahamian, Marketing, Digital Growth, Partnerships | ex-Calm, Charlotte Tilbury,
Aleena worked with Tina but on different teams in 2014
When it comes to creative leadership, Tina is across-the-board impressive. In just three short years, Tina has managed the VaynerMedia creative department's explosive growth (560%!), set up teams in three new offices and managed an ever-expanding set of integrated digital marketing services. She easily adapts to the agency’s fast-pace requirements and ensures the right support is in place for our growing client base. Tina is warm, intelligent, connected, inspiring, supportive and drives great work. She has a clear vision, keen insight and a consummate cheerleader for great work and the team that creates it.
Katherine McMahan, Operations and Engagement
Katherine reported directly to Tina (2014)
Tina is one of those rare mixes of a cool head, strong leadership, and pure talent. As a Project Manager at VaynerMedia I worked closely with Tina - at times reporting to her directly. Tina joined Vayner when the Creative Department lacked a singular direction. By establishing high standards for the creative output of the department and by always keeping the client's expectations at the forefront of all deliverables, Tina ushered the department from disparate pieces into a cohesive team that consistently delivered projects that exceeded expectations. And this was all done with a smile and a cool head. Needless to say, I would absolutely work with Tina again.
Pamela Maret, Recruiter in the Humanitarian/Non-Profit Sector
Tina was Pamela’s client (2014)
When I think about creative leaders, I think about people who are insightful, engaging, and inspirational. Tina embodies all of those characteristics, and so much more. As a creative recruiter, I run into people who have worked with Tina, and their feedback is always consistently positive. Her leadership skills are unparalleled as she leads her teams through complex campaigns, always striking a balance between what is best for her client as well as her team. I’ve watched her lead her creative team through explosive growth, and she’s taken a keen interest in establishing a challenging and rewarding career path for each member. Somehow, she manages to do all of this while delivering innovative solutions to some of the biggest brands in the world. If I were looking for a creative leader for my team, I would choose Tina every single time.When I think about creative leaders, I think about people who are insightful, engaging, and inspirational. Tina embodies all of those characteristics, and so much more. As a creative recruiter, I run into people who have worked with Tina, and their feedback is always consistently positive. Her leadership skills are unparalleled as she leads her teams through complex campaigns, always striking a balance between what is best for her client as well as her team. I’ve watched her lead her creative team through explosive growth, and she’s taken a keen interest in establishing a challenging and rewarding career path for each member. Somehow, she manages to do all of this while delivering innovative solutions to some of the biggest brands in the world. If I were looking for a creative leader for my team, I would choose Tina every single time.
Chris Kooluris, Executive Creative Director at Weber Shandwick
Chris reported to Tina, 2013
Tina is a rockstar. Not only is she one of the most creative people I know, her ability to manage a team and stay cool under pressure is without equal. This is a rare quality. But above all, Tina is just a great person to work with. Very personable, funny and approachable. She's great.Tina is a rockstar. Not only is she one of the most creative people I know, her ability to manage a team and stay cool under pressure is without equal. This is a rare quality. But above all, Tina is just a great person to work with. Very personable, funny and approachable. She's great.
Matt Landfield, Documentary filmmaker, baker, permaculturist and farmer in training.
Tina was Matt’s client, 2012
Working with Tina on multiple brand video projects for the AP has been a tremendous experience. Tina just "gets" it. Not only is she a consummate creative director with a clear vision for the AP brand, but she is also uniquely equipped to articulate and communicate that vision for the 21st century. I've been consistently impressed with her eye for good design, her attention to detail, and her overall acuity in matters of style and taste, as well as her ability to communicate her vision to stakeholders at all levels the process, from senior level executives to independent contractors and individual designers. I've also been impressed by her ability and willingness to step back and look at the big picture, and to keep her eye on the over-arching goals and needs of the organization she serves. Her stewardship of the AP brand identity is assured and rock solid, and it has been a privilege to work with her. I always look forward to opportunities to collaborate with Tina on projects, and am looking forward to a continued and fruitful collaboration.Working with Tina on multiple brand video projects for the AP has been a tremendous experience. Tina just "gets" it. Not only is she a consummate creative director with a clear vision for the AP brand, but she is also uniquely equipped to articulate and communicate that vision for the 21st century. I've been consistently impressed with her eye for good design, her attention to detail, and her overall acuity in matters of style and taste, as well as her ability to communicate her vision to stakeholders at all levels the process, from senior level executives to independent contractors and individual designers. I've also been impressed by her ability and willingness to step back and look at the big picture, and to keep her eye on the over-arching goals and needs of the organization she serves. Her stewardship of the AP brand identity is assured and rock solid, and it has been a privilege to work with her. I always look forward to opportunities to collaborate with Tina on projects, and am looking forward to a continued and fruitful collaboration.
Miwako Bishop, Regional Creative Director at The Great Room |
Miwako reported directly to Tina, 2012
Tina is a rare breed of leader, especially in such a cut-throat and fast-paced industry. With a superb eye for detail, design and branding on the whole, she is a great motivator through positive reinforcement and constructive criticism, and commands respect through leading by example. She also acknowledges hard work, identifies areas that need improvement, and creates a positive, friendly and a well-oiled machine of a creative department. It's been my pleasure to work for her!Tina is a rare breed of leader, especially in such a cut-throat and fast-paced industry. With a superb eye for detail, design and branding on the whole, she is a great motivator through positive reinforcement and constructive criticism, and commands respect through leading by example. She also acknowledges hard work, identifies areas that need improvement, and creates a positive, friendly and a well-oiled machine of a creative department. It's been my pleasure to work for her!
Kristen Berke, Executive Director, National Advertising at Los Angeles Times
Kristen worked with Tina but they were at different companies, 2012
Collaborating with Tina on a variety of projects for The AP has been such a pleasure, as she is constantly bringing new ideas to the table on how we can better our work and bigger picture partnership.
Some of Magnet Media's best work has come out of our relationship with The AP, which Tina has worked directly with me to facilitate. I would recommend her to any of Magnet's partners / clients without hesitation.Collaborating with Tina on a variety of projects for The AP has been such a pleasure, as she is constantly bringing new ideas to the table on how we can better our work and bigger picture partnership. Some of Magnet Media's best work has come out of our relationship with The AP, which Tina has worked directly with me to facilitate. I would recommend her to any of Magnet's partners / clients without hesitation.
Glenn Marshall, at Film of Dustat Film of Dust
Glenn worked with Tina but they were at different companies in2012
I was fortunate enough to have worked, in collaboration with Jump Design & Direction, with Tina on the recent AP rebrand.
It genuinely was a wholly satisfying experience. Tina has such a clear and focused strategic vision. She gave us room for creative expression but managed to keep us on-message when we pushed too many animation buttons.
She is an extremely good communicator, good-humoured and hardworking. (being based in London it was a constant form of amazement to us that no matter what time of day we sent an email we got a rapid response…does she ever sleep?!)
It was one of the most fulfilling rebrands I’ve worked on and this was primarily down to Tina. I hope to have the opportunity of working with her again in the future.I was fortunate enough to have worked, in collaboration with Jump Design & Direction, with Tina on the recent AP rebrand. It genuinely was a wholly satisfying experience. Tina has such a clear and focused strategic vision. She gave us room for creative expression but managed to keep us on-message when we pushed too many animation buttons. She is an extremely good communicator, good-humoured and hardworking. (being based in London it was a constant form of amazement to us that no matter what time of day we sent an email we got a rapid response…does she ever sleep?!) It was one of the most fulfilling rebrands I’ve worked on and this was primarily down to Tina. I hope to have the opportunity of working with her again in the future.
William Schroeder, Founder and Principal at Clarity
William worked with Tina on the same team, 2012
I worked with Tina for a significant amount of time during the AP's global branding initiative and found her to be a professional, seasoned, talented and business-savvy creative director. Tina is an effective and focused leader who manages people and projects extremely well even under tight time constraints and in complex situations. She was able to juggle literally dozens of design projects at once, bringing everything in on deadline and up to a very high quality standard. Her design sense and skills and her ability to connect strategic concepts to creative solutions are outstanding. She is an excellent presenter and her communications skills in general are very strong. I would gladly work with Tina again and recommend her highly.I worked with Tina for a significant amount of time during the AP's global branding initiative and found her to be a professional, seasoned, talented and business-savvy creative director. Tina is an effective and focused leader who manages people and projects extremely well even under tight time constraints and in complex situations. She was able to juggle literally dozens of design projects at once, bringing everything in on deadline and up to a very high quality standard. Her design sense and skills and her ability to connect strategic concepts to creative solutions are outstanding. She is an excellent presenter and her communications skills in general are very strong. I would gladly work with Tina again and recommend her highly.
Natasha Mikhalchuk, Art direction + design
Natasha reported directly to Tina in 2011
Tina is a rare combination of a confident and effective manager/team leader and talented creative with a superb design sense. Under her direction, projects run smoothly and clients are happy with the amazing results. It's partially due to how positive and proactive Tina is, designers working under her feel inspired, supported and encouraged to do their best. We want her back!Tina is a rare combination of a confident and effective manager/team leader and talented creative with a superb design sense. Under her direction, projects run smoothly and clients are happy with the amazing results. It's partially due to how positive and proactive Tina is, designers working under her feel inspired, supported and encouraged to do their best. We want her back!
Josef Valu, Freelance Art Director
Josef reported directly to Tina in 2010
I had the pleasure of reporting to Tina this past Summer (2010). Through the thick & thin of agency day-to-day, Tina manages to keep a cool head and is never one to shy away from rolling up her sleeves to dive in.
Tina's superb managing skills and her friendly disposition make working for her second to none. If you have the time to meet with her, I strongly suggest you do...ACD's like this are VERY hard to come by!I had the pleasure of reporting to Tina this past Summer (2010). Through the thick & thin of agency day-to-day, Tina manages to keep a cool head and is never one to shy away from rolling up her sleeves to dive in. Tina's superb managing skills and her friendly disposition make working for her second to none. If you have the time to meet with her, I strongly suggest you do...ACD's like this are VERY hard to come by!
James W. Morgan, Senior Production Design Supervisor at Area 23
James W. reported directly to Tina in 2010
I was fortunate to work with Tina at G2 during the summer of 2010 on the Swanson Great Stuffing Debate project. She is a team leader who possesses the right balance of toughness, knowledge and patience that inspires her team to produce stellar work. She as a person has a pleasant, fun and calm personality and is a pleasure to work with. Tina possesses a keen design aesthetic and a sharp eye for detail. Her work is insightful, creative and in tune with her clients needs. As a mentor her guidance has sharpened my skills and helped me become a better interactive designer.
Andrew AchsenAndrew Achsen, Editorial Manager
Andrew worked with Tina directly i n April 2010
Tina Antonion brings fresh and unexpected concepts to her work. Having worked with Tina in both direct mail and brand activation, and having benefitted from her versatility as an art director and conceptor, I can highly recommend her as both a powerful talent and unifying force in any creative department. Her can-do spirit and creative skills provide the kind of bench strength that advertising agencies, and creative directors, hunger for.Tina Antonion brings fresh and unexpected concepts to her work. Having worked with Tina in both direct mail and brand activation, and having benefitted from her versatility as an art director and conceptor, I can highly recommend her as both a powerful talent and unifying force in any creative department. Her can-do spirit and creative skills provide the kind of bench strength that advertising agencies, and creative directors, hunger for.
Karin Atlas Locovare, SVP, Group Marketing Director at Arnold Worldwide
Karin worked with Tina but on different teams in 2010
Tina is a highly talented creative director with amazing design expertise, marketing savvy and a keen understanding of her client's business needs. She is a team player, very solutions-oriented and an all around pleasure to work with.Tina is a highly talented creative director with amazing design expertise, marketing savvy and a keen understanding of her client's business needs. She is a team player, very solutions-oriented and an all around pleasure to work with.
Gulshan Panjwani
Gulshan worked with Tina but on the same team in 2010
Tina is one of the best creative professionals I have had the opportunity to work with. She is one of the few Creative Directors who "gets" User Experience and designs for it. The relative ease with which she translated client expectations, business need, user experience direction and technical limitations into elegant interfaces and design direction was really astonishing. She managed the Art Directors by providing excellent direction and guidance which is critical to an efficient design process. I would highly recommend Tina for any engagement as a Creative Director.Tina is one of the best creative professionals I have had the opportunity to work with. She is one of the few Creative Directors who "gets" User Experience and designs for it. The relative ease with which she translated client expectations, business need, user experience direction and technical limitations into elegant interfaces and design direction was really astonishing. She managed the Art Directors by providing excellent direction and guidance which is critical to an efficient design process. I would highly recommend Tina for any engagement as a Creative Director.
Peter Fleming, Associate Creative Director at Evoke
Peter worked with Tina on the same team in 2010
Tina is the best combination of good strategic thinking combined with truly original creative concepting. I always knew that the work we produced together was going to be top notch and it continues to be some of the work I am most proud of. I would also be remiss if I didn't mention her ability to manage a large portfolio of clients and projects simultaneously. Tina is a true professional.Tina is the best combination of good strategic thinking combined with truly original creative concepting. I always knew that the work we produced together was going to be top notch and it continues to be some of the work I am most proud of. I would also be remiss if I didn't mention her ability to manage a large portfolio of clients and projects simultaneously. Tina is a true professional.
Karen Madsen, Madsen Company, Communications for Sustainability
Karen was Tina’s professor at Pratt Institute
After reading Tina's current recommendations it is a delight to write a letter of recommendation for her that goes back to our fist meeting several years ago. The very talented young design student who exercised so much depth and maturity in her studies at Pratt has grown to be the design professional I believed she would become.
Surprisingly, I remember student work with total visual recall. I remember Tina's sensitive, well-researched Graphic Design Senior Project clearly – an entire communication program for the Museum of the American Indian (Smithsonian). Tina executed more than a dozen conceptually strong, solution driven design elements to build an impressive program in one semester creating design work that made use of elements that went beyond the normal paper, image, color, photography and illustration. With elements, such as feather and beads for several "special" elements her work became three dimensional – sculpture. Always with a careful eye to a realistic budget for a nonprofit institution and realistic schedule I knew then that once Tina was professionally on her way that she would also be respected for her personal style and executive skills that she consistently brings to the table with ease.
I am proud to say that I have been lucky to have taught many fine, exceptionally talented, young designers, such as Tina. It is my greatest satisfaction to see Tina realize her career, creating the challenge of more higher education . . . and who knows what more may come as time goes by. I always told my students that my greatest design accomplishment was "when they got it" – when I saw the light bulb flashing over their heads in realization as they embraced learning. Tina is proof of my philosophy that one can and should be all that they can be; that one should comfortably shine with the beauty of one's gifts . . . sending the message to others around them that they should, as well.After reading Tina's current recommendations it is a delight to write a letter of recommendation for her that goes back to our fist meeting several years ago. The very talented young design student who exercised so much depth and maturity in her studies at Pratt has grown to be the design professional I believed she would become. Surprisingly, I remember student work with total visual recall. I remember Tina's sensitive, well-researched Graphic Design Senior Project clearly – an entire communication program for the Museum of the American Indian (Smithsonian). Tina executed more than a dozen conceptually strong, solution driven design elements to build an impressive program in one semester creating design work that made use of elements that went beyond the normal paper, image, color, photography and illustration. With elements, such as feather and beads for several "special" elements her work became three dimensional – sculpture. Always with a careful eye to a realistic budget for a nonprofit institution and realistic schedule I knew then that once Tina was professionally on her way that she would also be respected for her personal style and executive skills that she consistently brings to the table with ease. I am proud to say that I have been lucky to have taught many fine, exceptionally talented, young designers, such as Tina. It is my greatest satisfaction to see Tina realize her career, creating the challenge of more higher education . . . and who knows what more may come as time goes by. I always told my students that my greatest design accomplishment was "when they got it" – when I saw the light bulb flashing over their heads in realization as they embraced learning. Tina is proof of my philosophy that one can and should be all that they can be; that one should comfortably shine with the beauty of one's gifts . . . sending the message to others around them that they should, as well.
Susan Osterloh, Creative Director
Susan was senior to Tina but didn't manage Tina directly in 2010
Tina is an elegant designer with an eye for detail and a heart for the concept. She presents fresh ideas with a sophisticated edge. And motivates her creative teams to produce strategic and unexpected solutions. Tina is on top of her game. If you’re looking to elevate yours, she’s a fantastic hire. Tina is an elegant designer with an eye for detail and a heart for concept. She presents fresh ideas with a sophisticated edge. And motivates her creative teams to produce strategic and unexpected solutions. Tina is on top of her game. If you’re looking to elevate yours, she’s a fantastic hire.
Adam Hiebeler, Creative Director Copy at Pivot Design
Adam worked with Tina on the same team in 2010
Tina is an outstanding creative professional. The key words here are "creative" (always comes to the table with an open mind and a broad range of exciting ideas) and "professional" (a conscientious collaborator with respect for others and exemplary communication skills). Her strong work ethic, vast experience, and great sense of humor make her a vital asset to any creative team. If Tina were an amplifier, she would definitely go to 11.Tina is an outstanding creative professional. The key words here are "creative" (always comes to the table with an open mind and a broad range of exciting ideas) and "professional" (a conscientious collaborator with respect for others and exemplary communication skills). Her strong work ethic, vast experience, and great sense of humor make her a vital asset to any creative team. If Tina were an amplifier, she would definitely go to 11.
Bonnie Millard, Independent Creative & Illustrator
Bonnie reported directly to Tina in 2010
Tina is no 'average' manager or designer, she possesses a wonderful combination of creativity and management–she motivates and inspires people to reach down inside of themselves and find their very best (both professionaly and personally).
As my Creative Director, Tina not only allowed, but encouraged me, an art director, to develop my own solutions and designs for particular projects. She certainly still managed the project–making sure we were on time and in the right direction, however she did not micromanage me. She gave me freedom, but let me know that she was always around to answer questions or give creative suggestions if needed–she was a wonderful manager. She maintained the right balance of freedom and support necessary to create successful solutions to each project.
Tina strives to find the right creative solution for whatever project she touches. She is a hard worker and does whatever it takes to get the job done, often inspiring those around her to accomplish it as a team effort.Tina is no 'average' manager or designer, she possesses a wonderful combination of creativity and management–she motivates and inspires people to reach down inside of themselves and find their very best (both professionaly and personally). As my Creative Director, Tina not only allowed, but encouraged me, an art director, to develop my own solutions and designs for particular projects. She certainly still managed the project–making sure we were on time and in the right direction, however she did not micromanage me. She gave me freedom, but let me know that she was always around to answer questions or give creative suggestions if needed–she was a wonderful manager. She maintained the right balance of freedom and support necessary to create successful solutions to each project. Tina strives to find the right creative solution for whatever project she touches. She is a hard worker and does whatever it takes to get the job done, often inspiring those around her to accomplish it as a team effort.
Barbara Peachey Colbert, Omnichannel Marketing Leadership
Barbara was a client in 2009
As the Associate Creative Director at Rapp, Tina supported a flagship Merck brand. She had accountability and responsibility for ensuring the agency's interactive creative deliverables were on target for our brand and that the concepts aligned with the brand vision. Tina was the primary presenter of new and revised concepts. Her laid back, yet professional, presentation style combined with a strong understanding of the brand and a creative mind are the total package. When feedback was critical, Tina was experienced enough to 'take the heat' without turning it back on her team (as so often happens). She would ensure she understood the feedback, so that the next round would be a smooth presentation. It was clear in each round that she was successful in communicating the brand team's direction back to her team and incorporating it before bringing back to the table. Tina would be an asset to any creative team lucky enough to have her on board.