H/L Launches Data and Innovation Department

Independent creative agency H/L has announced the launch of its data and innovation department. Evolving from its roots within the agency’s media team into a centralised powerhouse of efficiency, insights, and creativity, this new department reinforces H/L’s leadership in integrating advanced technology to amplify human ingenuity.

By providing employees with better AI and data tools, the data and innovation team will help strengthen strategy and create more effective solutions for clients. As AI moves from testing to practical use, H/L is focused on making the most of its capabilities to drive innovation and improve its work across the board. Established in 2023 and led by H/L SVP media director Michael Ramirez, the agency’s AI Think Tank—comprised of 15 representatives from across all departments—meets biweekly to develop strategies that empower team members to leverage technology, expand their skill sets, and grow their careers. This cross-functional collaboration laid the foundation for the new department, reinforcing H/L’s commitment to integrating human insight with technological innovation.

Tim Schatz, H/L VP, data and innovation, leads the newly established data and innovation department. Over the past six years, Tim has expanded the agency’s data and analytics practice, bridging the gap between data-driven decision-making and creative execution.

John Jamison, director of engineering and AI, is joining him, overseeing the technical implementation of emerging technologies, including AI. Jamison ensures the department’s solutions are technically robust and seamlessly integrated into agency workflows, reinforcing H/L’s commitment to data-powered innovation.

By integrating advanced data solutions into its internal processes and client offerings, H/L strengthens its reputation as an innovative agency delivering more effective, tailored marketing strategies. The agency has already applied these technologies in creative production, campaign research/insights, streamlining storyboarding, and leveraging AI-generated celebrity avatars to update creative output in real-time.

H/L’s data and innovation department will act as a key resource, connecting data analysts, engineers, creatives, consumer insights experts, and media planners to improve collaboration and strengthen decision-making across the agency.

“This launch isn’t just about technology—it’s about reimagining how we work, create, and connect with audiences,” remarked VP, data and innovation Tim Schatz. “We believe AI and data should serve as powerful tools that amplify human creativity rather than replace it. By combining human expertise with cutting-edge technology, we elevate our work product, delivering more strategic and impactful solutions for our clients. By embracing innovation with a strategic, results-driven mindset, we’re shaping the future of marketing for our clients and the industry at large.”

H/L chairman Trey Curtola on the expansion, “H/L has always focused on staying ahead of industry changes and finding new ways to deliver for our clients. The Data & Innovation Department is a natural next step in blending creativity with technology and data. It allows us to produce work that’s not only imaginative but also backed by insights and measurable results.”

Since 1985, H/L has been fiercely independent and committed to Make Momentum.™ The company’s strengths include local and national media activations, creative development, insights and analytics, full-scale digital and video production, multicultural marketing, and PR. H/L is headquartered in Oakland, California, with people in 22 states and offices in Atlanta, Miami, Phoenix, and St. Louis. What unites H/Lers across the country is a common drive—to pioneer new ways to push clients’ businesses forward and serve its communities.