2025 Creative LIAisons Virtual Coaches
Jerry Hoak
Chief Creative OfficerThe Martin Agency
Richmond
Jerry Hoak, Martin Agency’s CCO, is known for many things: gushing about his daughter, Prinn, dressing in ridiculous costumes to amuse employees, normalizing F-bombs in corporate settings, and transforming The Martin Agency from a traditional TV-focused shop into an award-winning powerhouse known for entertainment, activations, social media, design, and film.
Joining Martin in 2016, Jerry’s tenure is marked by a relentless drive for creative excellence and innovative design. He’s been integral to the agency’s creative and cultural surge with activations like Buffalo Wild Wings Jewel Stool and campaigns like Papa Johns “Better Get You Some,” Door Dash’s #OpenForDelivery, and Busch Light’s “Head for the Mountains” Super Bowl spot. He reimagined Martin Design, embedding it within each creative village and dramatically increasing client funding for design projects. This strategy led to stronger, design-led work, a surge in demand for Martin’s design services, and accolades from Fast Company, Cannes, and One Show.
Jerry’s also the agency’s Pitch Magician with a 90% win rate for securing high-profile clients like Papa Johns, Google Chrome and helping Martin add 15 new brands in eight weeks during a challenging economic climate.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jerry’s personal story as a childhood cancer survivor and Make-A-Wish Foundation beneficiary underscores his deep empathy and urgency. He champions bold ideas, clears bureaucratic hurdles, and sets a high bar for creativity. As an alum and adjunct professor at VCU’s Brandcenter, Jerry's commitment extends beyond the agency, sharing insights to elevate the advertising industry and mentor the next wave of professionals.
As a former GCD at Droga5, Jerry’s award-winning work, including the viral Android campaign "Be Together, Not the Same," cemented his reputation as a creative force. Now, as CCO, he continues to inspire and lead Martin Agency into its next chapter.