Rafael Rizuto

Rafael was recently is Chief Creative Officer (CCO) for Ogilvy North America,
He is a Brazilian-born creative powerhouse with a rich tapestry of experience spanning over two decades and across continents. With an extensive background encompassing diverse disciplines, he has left an indelible mark on the global advertising landscape.

Having traversed the realms of creativity from Brazil to the Middle East and eventually the United States, Rafael has left his imprint at esteemed agencies such as Ogilvy & Mather in Brazil, Ogilvy & Mather and Leo Burnett in Dubai, Pereira & O’Dell in San Francisco, 180 Los Angeles, and TBD, an independent San Francisco-based agency he founded in 2017.

His journey led him to BBH NY in April 2020, where he assumed the role of Chief Creative Officer (CCO). His exceptional leadership and creative vision propelled him to new heights, culminating in his promotion in July 2021 to oversee the entire BBH USA operation, including the offices in New York and Los Angeles, as well as the Entertainment division.

In November 2022, Rafael ascended to the prestigious position of Chief Creative Officer for US and Hispanic LATAM at Dentsu Creative, further solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.

Rafael's portfolio boasts an array of award-winning projects that have captivated audiences and earned industry accolades. From Boost Mobile’s groundbreaking “Boost Your Voice” campaign, which clinched two Grand Prix and Titanium awards at Cannes Lions and was crowned AdAge’s Creativity Awards Campaign of the Year in 2017, to Eurofarma’s acclaimed Scrolling Therapy, recipient of the Pharma Grand Prix at Cannes Lions 2023, his work has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined excellence.

Other notable endeavors include Google’s impactful "Black Owned Friday," recognized as Campaign US' Most Purposeful Campaign of the Year in 2021, and UNICEF’s poignant "UNfairy Tales," which garnered the Grand Prix for Good at Cannes Lions 2016.

Throughout his illustrious career, Rafael has amassed over 400 international awards at esteemed festivals such as Cannes Lions, D&AD, Epica Awards, One Show, Clios, London International Awards (LIA), and the Effies. His discerning eye and unwavering commitment to innovation have earned him a seat on the jury for many of these prestigious events.

A visionary leader and champion of creativity, Rafael played a pivotal role in propelling 180LA to unprecedented heights, establishing it as the most decorated agency within TBWA’s Network Worldwide for two consecutive years (2016/2017) and earning AdAge A-List’s "Stand Out Agency of the Year" accolade in 2017.

His remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his inclusion in Ad Age’s "40 Under 40" in 2017, Campaign US’ "40 Over 40" in 2021, and Business Insider’s ranking of him as #13 in the "30 Most Creative People in Advertising" in 2016.