CHICAGO – April 29, 2026 – Gatesman has named Armando Zuniga SVP, executive creative director, strengthening the agency’s creative leadership as it continues to expand its national footprint through award-winning creative and impactful work with results that matter. Armando brings a wealth of expertise from over 20 years shaping global brands across the U.S., Europe and Latin America. 

“Armando is the kind of creative leader who doesn’t just elevate the work, but the ambition behind it,” said John Gatesman, CEO. “His global perspective and ability to push boundaries will help us deliver ideas that are not only strategically sharp, but culturally resonant. He brings a rare combination of craft, leadership and creative fearlessness to think bigger and expect more from every idea.”

A highly-awarded creative in both advertising and film, Armando’s career spans creative leadership positions at BBDO, Leo Burnett, DDB and Edelman. He’s led multi-disciplinary creative teams for renowned brands including Samsung, McDonald’s, Bud Light, KitchenAid, Whirlpool and more. 

Armando’s work has earned recognition in competitive environments, with numerous international honors such as Cannes Lions, London International Awards, the New York Festivals and European Design Awards.

“What drew me to Gatesman is the energy—there’s real momentum here,” said Zuniga. “The team is ambitious, the clients are diverse and the opportunity to build something meaningful is huge. I’m looking forward to shaping work that not only performs, but truly connects.”

In his role at Gatesman, Armando will join the agency’s Director Circle, leading the creative department’s vision and execution to continue delivering work that embodies Gatesman’s bold, dynamic approach.

“We’re at a pivotal moment of momentum and we want to capitalize on it,” said Shannon Baker, president at Gatesman. “We continue to grow our creative reputation, and our goal was to bring in a level of talent who can help accelerate it—raising the bar on the work, galvanizing the team, and unlocking new creative opportunities, all with the humility and curiosity to build something meaningful together. Armando is that talent.” 

For more information, please visit gatesmanagency.com or keep up with #TeamGatesman on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, or X.

About Gatesman:

With offices in Pittsburgh and Chicago, Gatesman offers expertise in strategy/branding, advertising, public relations, social media, digital and analytics. Gatesman is a partner in AMIN Worldwide, an alliance of over 50 independent marketing agencies, IPREX, a global communications network and most recently the Ad Age Small Agency Network. Gatesman is also proud to be recognized as one of Ad Age’s Best Places to Work, reflecting its commitment to a strong, people-first culture. 

# # #

‍