ROTHCO CD Bernie Martin Announced as D&AD 2017 Professional Jury Member

Bernie Martin, Creative Director at independent creative agency ROTHCO, has been announced as a member of the Writing for Advertising Jury at international creative awards show, D&AD Professional Awards 2017. 

D&AD celebrates the finest creative work in the world and nurtures outstanding achievements in the design and advertising industry each year. Next year will be the first time the organisation will award innovations and fresh new work that comes to the market in Beta or as prototypes. 26 disciplines have now been announced for the 55th Professional Awards.

Bernie joins some of the international creative communities’ most accomplished members, and will be asked to judge entries according to a renowned rigorous judging process that ensures that only work of the highest standard receives a coveted D&AD Pencil. Bernie’s appointment follows on from fellow ROTHCO creative, Executive Creative Director, Alan Kelly’s selection for the LIA, Dubai Lynx, and One Show jury.

Commenting on her appointment, Bernie says: “I’m absolutely thrilled to have this dream opportunity of judging at D&AD. From your very first day in advertising, you realise that the word pencil will never again mean the same thing. D&AD pencils represent the sharpest minds in our industry, the most on point ideas and the purest craft. I think it’s fair to say that no matter how many new awards ceremonies there are, D&AD is still the one that every creative wants to win. That’s because it still feels so authentic – real awards given for real campaigns that are insanely inspiring.” 

Bernie’s recent transition into a Creative Director role at ROTHCO is supported by a long and illustrious career in copywriting - she is one of Ireland’s most experienced professionals in the field.

Having cut her teeth at Ogilvy & Mather, she spent seven years at Irish International as both a copywriter and a creative director before joining ROTHCO. Her strategic mind and notable expertise have served numerous high profile campaigns for clients that include Tesco, Bank of Ireland, Newstalk, Carlsberg, and Guiness to name a few. Bernie was responsible for creating powerful ads for the #YesOrkambi campaign which is helping Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients and families secure funding for the life-changing Orkambi drug. A parenting blogger, Cystic Fibrosis campaigner, and passionate advocate for creative for good, Bernie brings a unique and ultra-sharp insight to her work.  

The winners for the D&AD Professional Award Show will be announced on 25th – 27th April 2017 during the D&AD Festival 2017 at The Old Truman Brewery, Shoreditch.

Susan Treacy (Foreman) – FCB Chicago – EVP, ECD

Sarah Clift – Clever Mule - Owner

Simon Lotze – Ogilvy & Mather London – ACD

Matt MacDonald – BBDO New York – EVP, ECD

Bernie Martin – ROTHCO – CD

Bobby Pawar – Publicis South Asia – MD, CCO - South