GUT Los Angeles Hires Its First Managing Director

GUT Los Angeles has announced that it has hired James Hidden as the office’s first managing director to bolster the creative momentum and growth of the network’s California office. James has previously held the role of managing director at Ogilvy Chicago and most recently, Ogilvy California.

Throughout his career, James has established a reputation for overseeing award-winning creative and building diverse, multi-disciplinary teams. In his new role, James will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day agency operations, client relationship management, and continuing to build upon the office’s creative strengths and strategic capabilities. He will partner directly with GUT Los Angeles co-chief creative officers Ariel Abramovici and Bruno Acanfora and report to US CEO Sandra Alfaro. 

“GUT Los Angeles has achieved remarkable success since opening in 2022; and over the past year, it has truly thrived. We wanted a leader who could match the office’s energy and drive its momentum even further,” said Sanda Alfaro, U.S. chief executive officer, GUT. “James is the perfect addition to our team—his passion for the industry, commitment to building lasting client relationships, and love for the city make him an invaluable asset. I couldn’t be more excited to partner with him to continue growing GUT LA.”

James has had notable success across food, CPG, and alc-bev brands including Tyson Foods, Jimmy Dean, Corona Light and Modelo, which his team made the fastest-growing beer in America. GUT Los Angeles is known for its longstanding partnership with DoorDash, which included the Cannes Lions Grand Prix winning “Self-Love Bouquet” campaign. 

“Joining the GUT Los Angeles team is a dream come true. I’m thrilled to collaborate with Sandra, Ari, Bruno, and this wildly talented team to build upon their incredible foundation and strong momentum,” said James Hidden, managing director, GUT Los Angeles. “What sets GUT apart, for me, is the courage to challenge the status quo and find new, better ways forward. And nowhere is that mindset more relevant than here in LA, with its infectious energy and why-the-hell-not mentality. The opportunity to join a brave agency built for brave clients is truly a once-in-a-career opportunity.”

James joins that GUT LA team alongside executive creative director John Hansa, who came to the agency earlier this month as the West Coast shop continues to build out its world-class roster of talent.