One name sticks out in the saturated field of advertising and design for his inventiveness and unwavering commitment to quality: David Pinilla. David, who was born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, has an interesting career story that is interwoven with lively strands of enthusiasm, tenacity, and an unwavering quest of creativity on a worldwide scale.
David’s odyssey into the realm of creativity began in Colombia, where his innate talent and fascination for visual arts found expression. From humble beginnings, he honed his skills in graphic design, laying the groundwork for a remarkable career that would span continents and captivate audiences worldwide.
It was at Leo Burnett Colombia where David’s ascent in the advertising world commenced. As a web creative, he delved into the fundamental principles of creativity in advertising, setting the stage for his future endeavors. Transitioning to Young & Rubicam marked a pivotal moment, propelling David into the limelight of creative awards festivals such as Cannes Lions, Clio Awards, and El Ojo de Iberoamerica, where his talents earned him initial recognition and acclaim.
However, it was his tenure at Findasense that truly solidified David’s reputation as a creative powerhouse. Leading a dynamic creative social media team for Coca-Cola in Colombia and Latam, David not only showcased his creative prowess but also emerged as a mentor and leader in the industry.
The turning point in David’s journey arrived with his role as Senior Art Director at VML Commerce in Dubai, marking his foray into international territory. This experience not only broadened his cultural horizons but also garnered local awards, laying the foundation for his transformative move to Chicago.
In the heart of VML Commerce’s North American operations, David collaborated directly with the headquarters in New York, achieving remarkable success that reverberated throughout the industry. Notably, his contributions played a pivotal role in VML Commerce’s ascent to becoming one of the top 7 most awarded agencies in Cannes Lions in North America in 2023 and clinching the prestigious agency of the year title at the New York Festivals Awards in the same year.
David’s journey is a testament to the power of excellence, persistence, and a relentless pursuit of creativity. From his roots in Colombia to the bustling metropolis of Chicago, each step in David’s career has been marked by innovation, passion, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of creative expression.
Among David’s myriad achievements, none shine brighter than the accolades garnered by campaigns such as Oreocodes. This campaign not only catapulted David and his team to the esteemed title of ‘Agency of the Year’ at the New York Festivals but also secured their place among the leading agencies in the Cannes Lions ranking for North America. Pinilla also won 3 Grand Prix and 4 Bronze at the Dubai Lynx International Festival of Creativity with his “I See Coke” campaign for Coca-Cola.
Reflecting on his journey, David remarks, “My dream was always to work abroad, to explore different cultures and expand my horizons.” Indeed, his journey from Colombia to Dubai, with stops in between, is a testament to a life dedicated to exploration, passion, and embracing new experiences.
For those aspiring to excel in the world of advertising and design, David’s story serves as an inspiration—a reminder that with dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible.
As David continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, his legacy as an exceptional Art Director/Associate Creative Director is sure to endure, leaving an indelible mark on the industry for years to come.
To learn more about David Pinilla and his creative journey, visit davidpinisha.com or connect with him on LinkedIn.
Published by: Martin De Juan
