over the web

This is Jonathan. A conceptual, craft-driven Creative Director passionate about making award-winning, business-driving work.

He’s led teams of all sizes at top agencies across the U.S. and abroad, creating work recognized by Cannes Lions, D&AD, the EFFIEs, CLIOS and Fast Company’s Innovation by Design Awards. His client roster includes State Farm, McDonald’s, Puma, Patron Tequila, Motorola, Pfizer, and more.

A true integrated creative leader, Jonathan combines strategic insight with emerging technologies leveraging AI platforms to elevate new business pitches, streamline production, and uncover creative opportunities.

He was nominated for Chicago’s Latino Up & Comer Award, recognizing his impact as a Latino leader in Chicago.

His leadership is built on three unshakeable pillars:

  1. Crafting ideas that solve real business challenges

  2. Harnessing innovation as a catalyst for breakthrough work

  3. Fostering a collaborative culture of “yes”

over coffee

I’m a Mexican immigrant, a Texan at heart, and a proud Chicago transplant. Along the way, I’ve had the chance to live and work across the country and abroad, collaborating with some of the most talented and kind people in the industry.

I love what I do. Leading creative work, mentoring teams, and always searching for ideas beyond the brief to deliver meaningful growth for clients. Storytelling is my passion, and I believe in the power of creativity and innovation to solve real business challenges.

Outside of advertising, I’m a competitive cyclist and a contemporary abstract painter. I’ve been lucky to have my artwork featured in Architectural Digest, Rue Magazine, Lux Magazine, and Chicago Magazine.

Experiencing other cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life is what inspires me most. I believe deeply in the value of fostering a collaborative creative culture with different perspectives, ideas, and lived experiences that make teams stronger and creative work richer.


E M A I L jaypliego @ gmail.com


Recognition

I believe in great work that works greatly and have been recognized at Cannes, D&AD, One Show, Effies, other award shows and a bunch of publications.
To me, awards are icing on the cake. And who doesn’t love a bit of icing?

awards.jpg
 

Specialties: Integrated Campaigns, Activations, Innovation and A.I., Concepting, Visual Storytelling
Languages: Native bilingual English & Spanish
Education: Texas State University – Bachelors in Psychology & Masters in Fine Arts Advertising