Promotion underscores exceptional leadership skills and deep industry expertise
(SALT LAKE CITY, UT) January 11, 2024 — Award-winning marketing and experience design agency, Struck, announced the appointment of Matthew Manes as its new Executive Creative Director (ECD). Manes has been part of the core creative team for over two decades at the agency.
Manes’s distinctive touch is evident in his innovative branding and environmental designs, leaving a mark on Salt Lake City’s iconic landmarks and businesses, such as the renowned luxury retailer O.C. Tanner Jewelers, The Utah Office of Tourism, and Deer Valley Resort.
His impressive portfolio extends to global recognition with projects like the 20th Century Fox 75th Anniversary logo, retail concepts for The Biltmore Estate, and brand development for esteemed franchises under Dreamworks and Universal Studios. Matt’s artistry also made history by contributing to the design of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games medals and relay torch, exemplifying his commitment to excellence.
“Matt is truly a talented individual whose work has consistently been recognized for its exceptional beauty and creativity,” remarked Struck chief creative officer, Brent Watts. “His unwavering commitment to excellence is equally matched by his admirable qualities of humanity, empathy, and mentorship. This promotion is richly deserved.”
Manes’s promotion to ECD marks an exciting chapter for Struck as the agency reaffirms its commitment to leading in Experience Transformation — collaborating with companies in the destination marketing, outdoor recreation, and biotech sectors, helping them reshape their brands and redefine their industry presence. Struck has also recently released a service offering, STRKTR — a clearer definition of the agency’s expertise dedicated to creating distinct physical spaces that turn brands into experiences.
“Matt is a true creative visionary, creating countless unique and transformative experiences for our clients that have put Struck and STRKTR at the forefront of brand transformation,” said Struck CEO Andrew Howlett. “Matt’s work on both Struck and STRKTR projects over the years makes him a natural fit for this role. He leads from the front with deep expertise in both focuses of our business.”
About Struck
Struck works with companies ready to transform their brands in the destination marketing, outdoor recreation, and biotech industries. We engage at key inflection points to boost brand awareness, engagement, and growth. Rebranding, repositioning and fundraising preparation are particular areas of expertise. Based in Salt Lake City, Struck got its start in Los Angeles and has been heralded as a beacon of creativity in Utah for nearly two decades. STRKTR, a service offering from Struck puts connected branded experiences first by creating distinctive spaces that turn brands into realities. The agency’s transformative work with global, national, and local brands has been recognized through prestigious award programs including Emmy, Cannes Lion, Webbies, AIGA, and more. For more information about Struck, visit www.struck.com.
About STRKTR
Physical spaces have the unique potential to tell unforgettable stories. STRKTR, a service offering from creative agency Struck, puts connected branded experiences first. STRKTR creates distinctive spaces that turn brands into realities. The STRKTR approach can be applied to clients across industries ranging from entertainment to hospitality, retail, sports, and beyond, bringing brands to life and building customer and employee affinity. By breathing creative magic into the process between design, architecture, and client, together, STRKTR can construct the unforgettable.