GUT New York Names Deb Freeman as Head of Strategy

GUT New York has appointed Deb Freeman as its first head of strategy, reinforcing the agency's commitment to brave, insight-led, culture-defining work. In her new role, she will lead GUT's strategy team across all facets of strategic planning, integration, and execution. She will report to US head of strategy Natalia Davila and New York managing director Gus Marmarinos.

With more than 20 years of experience in brand and agency strategy, Deb has held key roles at Grey, FCB New York, McCann, and most recently at BCW (now Burson) as the North American chief strategy officer driving transformation for established brands and emerging start-ups. Her strategic leadership has propelled brands such as Jet Blue, Pantene, TJ Maxx, Canon, Burger King, Ulta Beauty and Prudential into the cultural spotlight winning awards at Cannes Lions, Clios, Effies, The Webbys, and The Emmys.

"Deb is an exceptionally talented strategist who knows how to turn insight into impact. She's helped some of the world's biggest brands create breakthrough work that not only drives business growth but shapes culture," said Gus. "We're beyond excited to have her in New York, helping to fuel our brave creativity and take our strategic approach to the next level."

Deb is deeply passionate about driving meaningful change. She has worked with The Brady Foundation on advocacy initiatives, partnered with The United States Tennis Association to change elitist perceptions of tennis and helped Cancer Culture, a breast cancer organisation, expose the truth about metastatic patients to fund research for millions of women in desperate need of a cure.

“GUT is known for brave, ambitious, and culturally relevant work - built on smart strategy and real human insights,” said Deb. “As a strategist, GUT’s wholehearted dedication to delivering best in class creativity through transformative insights is a dream come true. I couldn’t be more thrilled to join this world-class team.

Deb is GUT New York's second senior hire this year, following executive creative director John Parker in February.