Carl Vander Zanden
About Carl Vander Zanden
Carl Vander Zanden is a Lead Writer at Thesis agency in Portland, Oregon, with extensive experience in copywriting and creative direction across various prominent agencies and brands. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Advertising from the University of Oregon and is known for his passion for storytelling and creating emotionally resonant brand narratives.
Current Role at Thesis
Carl Vander Zanden serves as the Lead Writer at Thesis agency since 2021. In this role, he focuses on crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. His responsibilities include developing brand stories that integrate emotional elements, ensuring that the messaging aligns with the clients' objectives. He has been contributing to the agency's creative output for three years in the Portland, Oregon Metropolitan Area.
Previous Experience at Razorfish
Carl Vander Zanden worked at Razorfish for a total of nine years, first as a Senior Copywriter from 2001 to 2010 and later as an Associate Creative Director from 2010 to 2016. During his tenure, he contributed to various projects that enhanced brand visibility and engagement. His experience at Razorfish laid the foundation for his expertise in digital marketing and creative strategy.
Freelance Work and Collaborations
Throughout his career, Carl Vander Zanden has engaged in multiple freelance roles, including positions at Nike, PIA Agency, Must Be Something Studio, and Sockeye. His freelance work has spanned various capacities, such as Associate Creative Director and Senior Writer. Notably, he worked with Nike as a Freelance Copywriter in both 1994 and from 2019 to 2020, showcasing his ability to adapt to different creative environments.
Education and Expertise
Carl Vander Zanden earned a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Advertising from the University of Oregon, studying from 1991 to 1994. His educational background has equipped him with a strong foundation in storytelling and communication, which he applies in his professional roles. His expertise lies in creating emotionally resonant narratives that connect brands with their audiences.
Creative Philosophy
Carl Vander Zanden describes his creative process as a 'beautiful madness' characterized by a quixotic obsession for achieving simplicity and impact. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling that incorporates emotional elements such as voice, truths, and humanity. This philosophy guides his work in developing brand narratives that resonate deeply with consumers.