Stephen Oster
About Stephen Oster
Stephen Oster is a Creative Director at Bankrate, with a diverse background in design and strategic leadership across various industries. He has founded and exited two creative firms and advocates for collaborative team environments.
Current Role at Red Ventures
Stephen Oster currently serves as the Creative Director for Bankrate at Red Ventures. He has held this position since 2021, contributing to the development and execution of creative strategies within the financial services sector. His role involves overseeing creative projects and ensuring alignment with the company's brand vision.
Previous Experience in Creative Leadership
Before joining Red Ventures, Stephen Oster held various leadership roles in creative agencies. He was the Principal and Strategic Director at Bright Yellow Jacket from 2007 to 2011 in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. He also worked as the Associate Creative Director at Teague from 2012 to 2013 and served as the Sr. Creative Director at Tiny Horse in 2021. His experience spans multiple creative positions, showcasing his expertise in leading teams and projects.
Educational Background
Stephen Oster studied at James Madison University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from 1996 to 2000. He also attended Lord Byng Secondary School and Western Albemarle High School. His educational background has contributed to his foundational skills in creative direction and strategic thinking.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Stephen Oster has founded and successfully exited two creative firms, highlighting his entrepreneurial skills and business acumen. His experience in establishing and managing these firms demonstrates his ability to navigate the complexities of the creative industry and foster growth.
Creative Skills and Strengths
Stephen Oster possesses a unique combination of strengths in strategic thinking, ideation, and connectedness, as identified by Strength Finders. He advocates for leadership that promotes company growth and values collaborative team environments. His extensive experience includes creating brand experiences across diverse sectors such as start-ups, non-profits, universities, aviation, product/retail, healthcare, and entertainment.