Hi there!
Thanks for stopping by! I’m Katie. You can call me Katie, KG, KGB (Katie Gerdes-Barnett) not to be confused with the other KGB.
My ad career has spanned agencies and cities where I’ve been so fortunate to work and learn from the very best.
I’m currently a Group Creative Director at a small, independent agency in Cincinnati.
(773) 981-7479 // gerdesk@gmail.com
Resume
Curiosity, Cincinnati / 2019-present
Led the creative pitches for various new business wins: Just Born Candy Brands (Mike & Ike, PEEPS, Hot Tamales, Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews), Blue Buffalo Love Made Fresh Food Launch, Native Deodorant // Other clients have included: Tiki Cat, Zevo, Brooks Running, Academy Sports & Outdoors, PhD Feminine Health, Stonefire Naan, UC Health
VMLY&R, Chicago / 2016-2019
Served as the lead ACD/Art Director on multiple Kraft Heinz social accounts including: Heinz, Kraft Mac and Cheese, Velveeta. Was also responsible for helping guide the digital visual look and feel for Kimberly-Clark’s Viva brand.
McCann, NYC / 2014-2016
Was part of the core team responsible for the launch of Microsoft’s Windows 10 work. Served as a global creative liaison for other markets to ensure the Microsoft brand standards were translated and maintained. Other clients while there included: Coke, Feeding America
Doner, Detroit / 2011-2014
Got my feet wet and produced a variety of work as a junior AD on numerous brands, including AutoTrader, AutoZone, Chrysler, Del Taco, Fiat, JBL, The UPS Store and Choice Hotels.
2025 National Addy: PHD Feminine Health, Love & Heart for your Lady Parts
2022 Effie Finalist: Native, No is our Woah
Accolades
2019 Clio, Gold: Social Platform (Heinz Mahomes)
2019 Clio, Gold: Real Time Response (Heinz Mahomes)
2018 Gold Shorty Award: Food & Beverage (Heinz Mayochup)
2018 The Drum: Best Use of Twitter (Heinz Mayochup)
2018 Project Isaac Award: Most Innovative Creative Advertising (Heinz Mayochup)
Education
DePaul University: PR & Communications, Advertising
Chicago Portfolio School, Art Direction