Fifteen Degrees

To quickly and efficiently create lift for brands in today’s world,
you have to be fluent in a variety of advertising media and social mediums,
which is undoubtedly why we’ve grown to become such an eclectic group.
Scroll to the right to see the many different types of people who make up the
DNA of Fifteen Degrees.

Co-Founder/Director of Account Services

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

Always thinking. Rarely compromise. Work hard and really enjoy what I do. Love to see young talented professionals succeed. Love to see clients succeed even more.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

Coaching my daughter in softball and vicariously wishing I were her. Playing tennis and having a backhand like Roger Federer. Actively involved in raising awareness of heart disease in young women through www.2BigHearts.org.

What brands have you created lift for?

Hankook Tire, Mobil Oil, HSBC, Purolator Filters, Hertz, Fed Ex DVX, Hennessey Industries, Continental Tires, Hino Diesel Trucks (Toyota), Marvel Oil, The Heart Institute, Northshore-LIJ, Staten Island University Hospital, Sanwa Bank BGK, Oppenheimer & Co., Security Pacific National Bank, New York Community Bank, Apple Bank for Savings, Dime Bank, Bank Asiana, Flushing Bank, Catholic Charities, Dermot

What’s the short story on your life in advertising?

My father, George P. Clarke, started the agency (originally Clarke Advertising) in 1965. He thrived in this business because he cared about each and every client’s business as if it were his own. Then in 1995, he handed the reins of the company over to me. I do my best to follow in his footsteps, caring for our clients’ businesses as much as they do. It’s something I think about everyday, and it keeps me closely involved in every stage of all our clients’ advertising, from strategic, to creative, to implementation and tracking.
I like to say that, as an agency, “We are the product of those we’ve helped succeed.” And, over the course of my 27-year career those successes have included creating lift for some of the world’s largest brands, like helping to transform Hankook Tire into one of the top tire companies nationwide. During that time I’m proud to have won numerous awards for direct marketing, broadcast and design in the financial, healthcare, and automotive industries.
I have a B.S from the State University of New York at Oswego and live in Weehawken, NJ with my wife Nanci and daughter, Nicole. I also recently succeeded, happily, in climbing to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Co-Founder/Creative Chief

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

I head up all the creative work at Fifteen Degrees. I occasionally lift spirits by agreeing to sign for the bar tab.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

During the spring and fall I coach youth soccer. During the summer and winter, I recover from coaching youth soccer. I’m proud of the PSA campaigns I’ve created over the years for Organ Donation, SIDS, and Catholic Charities. I also roast my own coffee beans, and have been known to brew up the kind of coffee that creates a lift in heart rates.

What brands have you created lift for?

AT&T Wireless, Toshiba, Honda, Standard & Poor’s, Speedo, Newsweek, Pentax, SiriusXM, Carvel Ice Cream, CBS, Eight O’Clock Coffee, Heinz, Coty Fragrances, Ernst & Young, French Government Board of Tourism, Golden Books, GreenPoint Bank, JD Power, Organ Donation, Kaplan, Maimonides Medical Center, Advanced Radiation Centers, Marsh, Mercer, Warnaco, WNYC, Marvel Comic Books & Entertainment, St. Francis Hospital, The Heart Institute, North Shore-LIJ, Staten Island University Hospital, Dermot, New York Community Bank, Flushing Bank, St. John’s University, CBRE

What’s the short story on your life in advertising?

I began my advertising career in Chicago as a media planner for JWT, where I learned to create lift with the left half of my brain first. While at JWT, I took copywriting classes during the evenings, which eventually led to my catching the attention of advertising icon Jerry Della Femina on Madison Avenue in New York. That was in 1995 and for the next 15 years I worked at Della Femina/Rothschild/Jeary and Partners, rising to the title of VP/Creative Director. During my time with Della Femina, I contributed to the success of many brands including Toshiba, AT&T Wireless, Honda, Newsweek, Carvel ice cream, Casio, and Standard & Poor’s.

Over the years, I’ve been honored with numerous advertising awards, published articles in AdWeek and Advertising Age, spoken as a guest lecturer for the Advertising Education Foundation, and served as a judge for the New York Festivals advertising award show.

I have a B.A. in Economics from the University of South Florida and live with my wife, Jeanne, and two children, Griffin (7) and Sophia (5) in Tarrytown, New York.

Executive Account Director

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

Sheer volume. (I can’t seem to find my “inside voice”).  But maybe it’s because I have a lot of energy and passion for what I do.  And it’s most rewarding when I see how it ignites and motivates others. Account Management is about building relationships, building business, being a taskmaster – but also a visionary. There isn’t a recipe for Account Management greatness.  But bringing your A-game every day is a good start.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

I love baking.  Especially as a way to make other people feel special.  Who doesn’t love a little home baked goodness every now and then?

What brands have you created lift for?

Purdue, CB Richard Ellis (CBRE), Carvel, Atlantic Health, Standard & Poor’s, Mercer, Honda, Checkers/Rally’s Restaurants, Scotts, Ad Council (NYC/DOE), CJ Foundation for SIDS, Meredith Publishing, GreenPoint Financial, Little, Brown & Company, Dutton/Plume, Villard/Random House, Dial-A-Mattress, Hasbro, Computer Associates, Dermot, Flushing Bank, Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens, The Heart Institute, Staten Island University Hospital

What’s the short story on your life in advertising?

At my first job (not in advertising), I became friends with a woman who had been an Account Supervisor at Grey. When she explained her role there, I immediately knew that’s what I wanted to do. Luckily, it wasn’t long before the stars aligned and I ended up finding a boutique agency that didn’t seem to mind hiring a young girl with tons of energy, but no advertising experience.

After learning the ropes, I hopped, skipped and jumped to a few agencies, then landed at Della Femina, where I spent 10 years coming into my own as a manager, planner, strategist, and relations and operations expert – not to mention agency cheerleader and resident birthday cake baker.

After Mac left for fame and fortune at Fifteen Degrees, he kept me on his radar and convinced me to come join Rich and him. Now, in addition to new co-workers, clients and challenges, I happily have a new baking gig, too.

SVP, Comptroller

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

I ensure that the agency achieves its financial objectives so that I can provide the best possible service to clients. I make the word “efficiency” a reality for 15 Degrees. Maximizing our potential so we can grow and help our clients grow is my main goal.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

Theater is my passion. I focus on being part of projects that address social issues. I believe that theater, as well as other forms of art, can be vehicles which give a voice to those causes that can’t find it for themselves.

Art Director/Designer/Photographer

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

I take on assignments very personally. I often dream about design solutions. That’s when I know it’s time to lift a few beers.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

I travel across the globe to remote places for adventure and to photograph the indigenous people. The better I can connect with people, the better I can make a photograph that will tell their story, see Lens on Asia.com.

Genius/ACD Art

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

For me, everything is about aesthetics. I bring my love for art and design, space and form into everything i do. I enjoy a good challenge and i love to surprise myself

(Note: I hate ugly stuff. I refuse to partake in what I call “visual disturbance” – I strongly believe it’s my responsibility to create and give life to aesthetically pleasing things.)

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

I love to travel – Mexico, Russia, England, France, as well as the Middle East, in the past year alone. I am constantly taking off and landing with another great book and a Nikon in my hands. I also paint in my Brooklyn art studio (annapaints.com) and spend time at the gym doing yoga and pilates…getting stronger…so everything is easier to lift.

Account Manager/PR Director

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

I raise awareness and improve the public image of our clients. I’m always on the lookout for opportunities that will allow the world to learn more about them and the great work they are doing. I’m a journalist. Who? What? When? Where? How? Why? Tell me and I will create the best story.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

I broadened my horizons and culture by moving from Barcelona, Spain, to New York. (I also like to think that my presence creates lift in NYC.) I love water. Seawater. I have a very special relationship with the Mediterranean Sea and I’m always trying to find opportunities to swim in the ocean. (Celebrating my last b-day in Saint Martin while people in NYC were freezing was one of them.) I’m also a proud volunteer at the Asian American Arts Alliance (www.aaartsalliance.org) a non-profit organization that creates opportunities for Asian American artists in NYC.

What’s your background in creating lift for clients?

I began my professional career in broadcasting in Spain: TVE (National Public TV). During that time I interviewed many internationally recognized celebrities including:

• Rick Hilton, Chairman and Co-founder of Hilton & Hyland
• Kathy Hilton, TV personality
• Rafa Nadal, world number one in men’s tennis ranking
• Florentino Perez, President of Real Madrid Soccer Club
• Eva Herzigova, super model for Wonderbra, Guess and Victoria’s Secret
• Carlos Fuentes, Mexican writer awarded with the Miguel de Cervantes Prize

Later, I began working in Communications and Public Relations for:

• SIMA, Madrid International Real State Exhibition
• PROMECO, Office of Economic Development of the Government in Lleida, Spain
• International Secretariat of Religions for Peace, non-profit organization affiliated to the United Nations and present in 70 countries

Since joining Fifteen Degrees, I’ve contributed to many accounts including:
The Heart Institute, Staten Island University Hospital, North Shore-LIJ Health System, Flushing Bank, Catholic Charities, Dermot, Hummingbird Organics, Nutrition First

Intern Extraordinaire

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

I go by many names and wear an assortment of hats at 15°. I round out the international office but adding the Aussie spirit that all good offices require. As an Intern I am very glad to work across several accounts and assist wherever possible.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

I am one semester away from graduating with a Bachelor of Communications (Business) at Bond University on the Gold Coast in Australia. While in New York, I am pillaging ticket booths up and down Broadway to purchase as many cheap show tickets as I can, and running around like a crazy lady trying to tick-off my NYC to-do list.

Flash Animator/Web Programmer*

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

I bring Web ideas to life. My skills include: Flash, Actionscript 3.0, HTML, CSS and advanced knitting.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

I’m an accomplished knitter and often contribute my knitted affairs to charities for the homeless.

What brands have you created lift for?

Honda, Disney, Philips, Toshiba, Mercer, Bic, Boru Vodka (Ireland/US), Eight O’Clock Coffee, Cirque Du Soleil, Blue Man Group, Radio City, Flushing Bank, The Heart Institute, Staten Island University Hospital, North Shore-LIJ Health System

Chief Direct & Digital Marketing Strategist

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

I always focus on having clear goals and a clear strategy of how to achieve those goals. My approach is to manage by fact. I’m quick to measure results and quick to adjust to improve results.

How do you create lift outside of 15 degrees?

I’m a proud father of two and my motto for them is the same as for marketing: “What works, works, what doesn’t, doesn’t.” I know, but they seem to get it.

What brands have you created lift for?

New York Community Bank, Dime Savings Bank, Flushing Bank, First National State Bank, First Fidelity Bank, First National Bank Jersey City, North Shore-LIJ, Staten Island University Hospital, The Heart Institute, Applewood Estates, Amalgamated Bank, Centrastate Health System, Hummingbird Organics

Display Engineer/Production Manager

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

With 20 years in the digital display industry, I have the experience to handle any sign project, large or small, interior or exterior. My responsibilities include outside sales and survey work, design consultation, project management for all stages of your project or program (I am a certified project manager holding the PMP designation), installation coordinator and supervisor, as well as permit procurement. I have a BS degree in Business Management and owned and managed my own sign company for over 12 years.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

I love to fish, even though there are many days when I don’t wind up lifting a fish out of the ocean. I’m a volunteer leader for the Boy Scouts – my son is now an Eagle Scout, but that hasn’t stopped me from continuing to go on camping trips.

What brands have you created lift for?

EmblemHealth, Sherwin-Williams Paints, The Heart Institute, North Shore-LIJ, Staten Island University Hospital, Sleepy’s Mattresses, Flushing Bank, Dime Savings Bank, New York Community Bank

Web Designer/Programmer*

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

I help my team and the client turn ideas into reality.
It’s my goal to get it right the first time, every time.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

I’m an accomplished sculptor/video artist, art teacher, and a pretty darn good cook.

What brands have you created lift for?

Mercedes Benz, Ford Motor Co., Toyota, American Express, Pepsi Cola, Nike, Paramount Pictures, Comedy Central, Radical Media, The Nijinsky Estate, The Bob Marley Estate, Radio City Music Hall, Palm Pictures, Marvel, Universal Records, Blue Note Records, St. Martins Press, Loews Cineplex Entertainment,  U.S. Open Tennis, Detroit Institute of Arts, BNB Bank, Flushing Bank, The Heart Institute, Staten Island University Hospital, North Shore-LIJ Health System, Catholic Charities, Hummingbird Organics

*Kiersten is a freelance partner and contributes regularly as a valuable member of the Fifteen Degrees team.

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

I help combine the latest Internet technology with compelling creative design. The result is a dynamic, interactive Web presence that lifts our clients above the competition.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

As recipients of Small Business Innovative Research Grant from the Department of Health and Human Services, I helped produce the Award-winning Beat the Street curriculum. This program is used in thousands of facilities around the world to help recovering inner city addicts avoid relapsing to substance abuse.

What brands have you created lift for?

Westinghouse, Tropicana, Union Carbide, Houghton Mifflin, The Heart Institute, North Shore-LIJ, Staten Island University Hospital, Rockwell international, National Institute of Drug Abuse, National Health Care, Sunburst Communications, Human Relations Media, Med Data Inc., Office of Mental Health, Commission on Corrections, Bureau of Municipal Police, Civil Service Employee’s Association

*Tom is a freelance partner and contributes regularly as a valuable member of the Fifteen Degrees team.

Senior Copywriter*

How do you create lift at Fifteen Degrees?

As a creative who goes by the title “Copywriter,” my ultimate goal is to deliver the kind work that clients are proud to take full credit for.

How do you create lift outside of Fifteen Degrees?

My kids. My Spanx®.

What brands have you created lift for?

Virgin Atlantic Airways, Alitalia Airlines, Texaco, Miller Beer, Johnnie Walker, The Heart Institute, GoDaddy.com, Flushing Bank, Hummingbird Organics, Rosa Mexicano Restaurants, Trump International Hotel & Tower, The French Culinary Institute, Bravo TV, Jetblue Airways, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Zappos.com, Maxim Magazine, Foot Locker, CVS Pharmacy, Loews Cineplex Entertainment, Starwood Hotels, WashingtonPost.com

Web Programmer/Developer*

How do you create lift at 15 degrees?

I pride myself on creating easy-to-use Web-based systems with functionality that go beyond what most clients think is possible. I specialize in ecommerce, content management, form data capture, data calculations, reporting, and database management.

How do you create lift outside of 15 degrees?

I am an avid sports car enthusiast and animal lover. I volunteer weekly for the Walden Humane Society. My love for animals has led me to creating numerous Web sites for animal welfare groups.

Producer*

How do you create lift at 15 degrees?

I am passionate about producing emotionally compelling content across all platforms including broadcast, digital and social media. I constantly search for the most talented, innovative directors, editors, graphic artists and other vendors who will creatively lift the projects I work on.

How do you create lift outside of 15 degrees?

I am a travel junkie. I’ve visited well over 20 countries including Indonesia, Thailand, Russia, Africa and Honduras just to name a few.  I have participated in many adventurous activities involving lift. I bungee jumped in Australia, paraglided off a mountain in Turkey, and went sky diving in exotic Flemmington, New Jersey. In addition I often lift the spirits of the underprivileged girl I’ve been mentoring for the past five years.