Our Chief Executive Officer, Michael Watts, joins the honoree list!

Campaign US has been celebrating creative excellence across the advertising industry for nearly a decade, and their 40 Over 40 Awards are an annual event, honoring industry executives and trailblazers for their noteworthy contributions across advertising, marketing, media, technology and communications.

This year our very own co-founder and CEO Michael Watts joins the list of leaders who have stayed dedicated to their craft while opening up the field for new talent; making the industry a better place to work for people of all genders, ethnicities and backgrounds.

A self-taught designer and accidental entrepreneur, Michael helped transform Hook from a small banner ad business into the award-winning creative agency it is today—employing over 108 people across the country and working with top global clients including Google, Amazon, Nike and YouTube.

“Having partnered with Hook for over half a decade, I can say without a doubt that Michael and his team are the best partners we’ve ever worked with. Beyond being a creative genius, he is a great leader who cares deeply about his team and ours, and is always willing to do whatever it takes to ensure we make the best work possible, grow the business and have a fun time doing it.”

Beyond client work, Michael is constantly looking for ways to improve his skills both as a leader and for the organization as a whole. He is always learning, experimenting new ways to do things, prioritizing people and thinking long-term.

“Well before the pandemic when it became fashionable to prioritize employee wellbeing and engagement, Michael defined Hook’s vision to be ‘Everyone’s Favorite Agency’–and it’s something he’s delivered on.”

Michael has committed himself and Hook to not only inspiring the next generation of creatives, but also diversifying the industry through custom initiatives like Sandbox, Hook’s external mentorship program, and partnerships with non-profit organizations like Locks of Love, the Neutral Zone and Safe Place for Youth. He is also incredibly active in his Ann Arbor community sitting on several boards including the Ann Arbor Art Center.

For more about the CampaignUS 40 Over 40 Awards, visit their website here.