Hired April 2004
Education:
- University of Minnesota, Twin Cities: BA Journalism
Notable Achievements:
A creative new direction While working at Periscope in Spring 2002, John provided a thoughtful campaign that successfully and significantly changed the way Volvo Penta would launch SeaKey, its new marine version of On-Star. With his help, creative development proceeded at a record pace and the project was introduced on time, to an enthusiastic press and public.
Outstanding in his field:
John also provided the ultimate idea for BASF in its efforts to market its Storm herbicide - "With no weeds to worry about, only something absurd could harm your soybean crop." Geared towards southern soybean growers, the award-winning campaign featured beautiful soybean fields, infested with preposterously out-of-place things, including a heard of dinosaurs and some refugees from the hippie era. The attention-getting quality of the campaign generated great interest for Storm and its sales grew 18%.
Other Work Experience:
Before making his way over to Risdall, John served 20+ years as a copywriter, most recently as Copy Chief at Periscope. His clients there included Arctic Cat Snowmobiles & ATVs, Volvo Penta, Par Aide, Lawson Software, Treasure Island Resort & Casino and MasterCraft boats.
Previous to Periscope, he worked at Campbell-Mithun on Mercury Outboards, BASF, Healthy Choice, Kimberly-Clark and Andersen Windows. John also employed his talents at Colle & McVoy, Clarke Livingston and Kolesar & Hartwell.
Proud Professional Moments:
John's proudest professional moment was successfully launching SeaKey Volvo Penta's satellite-based communication system for boaters, with an integrated communications program.
Hobbies and Activities:
Golfing, dog walking, raising kids, dog walking, exercising, dog walking, barbequing, dog walking, travel, dog walking, practicing golf and dog walking.
Favorite RAA Treat?
Tutti-Frutti Jelly Belly
Something surprising:
At five-feet, eight-inches, John is the tallest copywriter at Risdall Advertising