Meet the team
The Creative Heist is led by a team of seasoned professionals - Ben Akers, David Gibson, and Thad Cox, who each bring a wealth of experience from the worlds of Advertising, Branding and Strategy.
Together, they have reshaped how agencies approach new business, turning ambitious pitches into winning strategies.
Here at Creative Heist, our goal is simple: to equip your agency with the tools and insights needed to not only catch the eye of your dream clients but also build lasting partnerships with them.
Thad Cox is a testament to the power of leveraging creativity across varied realms of life, from high-stakes advertising to the personal touch of hospitality, and even the strategic world of football coaching. With a storied career that spans two decades as an Art Director for advertising giants like Leo Burnett and Saatchi & Saatchi, Thad brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to every endeavor he undertakes.
His journey is not just about advertising success; it’s about redefining how creative talents are used to build fulfilling and profitable businesses. Thad has transcended traditional career boundaries, running a hotel and a Michelin-star restaurant in Cornwall, and earning a UEFA B license as a football coach in London. These experiences have imbued him with an unparalleled understanding of team dynamics, strategic planning, and the importance of passion in every project.
Whether it’s reinvigorating big brands like McDonald's, Nintendo, and Guinness with innovative advertising, coaching budding football talents, or setting the vibe as a DJ at London’s acclaimed club night, Soul Glow, Thad embodies what it means to be a multi-faceted leader in the creative industry.
Working with Thad means not just reaching for success—it means redefining what success looks like and achieving it on your own terms. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and transformed.
Thad Cox
David Gibson stands at the crossroads of creativity and business acumen, a place where bold ideas meet impactful execution. As the co-founder and director of Hawke’s Brewing Co., David has transformed a passion for quality and storytelling into an award-winning beer brand that resonates with a spirit of authenticity and excellence.
Launched in April 2017 alongside former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, Hawke’s Brewing Co. quickly captured the nation's attention with a media blitz valued at over $4 million. The company has since become a bastion of craft beer excellence, winning multiple accolades including the prestigious AIBA trophy for 'Best Australian Style Lager' and a gold for the 'Best American Style Pale.' These achievements are a testament to David’s relentless pursuit of quality and innovation.
Before venturing into the brewing industry, David honed his creative expertise as a highly-awarded Creative Director at Droga5 New York, AdWeek’s ‘Agency of the Decade.’ There, he spearheaded groundbreaking campaigns for major brands like Toyota, Motorola, and Honey Maid. His work not only earned commercial success but also cultural acclaim, receiving endorsements from figures as esteemed as former U.S. President Barack Obama. His creative endeavors have been highlighted in prominent publications such as Time Magazine, The New Yorker, The New York Times, and Fast Company, showcasing his ability to craft narratives that engage and inspire on a global scale.
David’s career is characterised by his visionary leadership and the ability to foresee and capitalize on market trends, turning them into golden opportunities for brand growth. His expertise extends beyond traditional advertising, embracing a holistic approach to branding that integrates product excellence with compelling storytelling.
David Gibson
Hailing from the vibrant streets of Lewisham, South London, Benjamin Daniel Robert Akers was born into a legacy of thinkers and doers—from a psychotherapist parent to publican grandparents and an activist sibling. His upbringing instilled in him a profound appreciation for storytelling and community engagement, traits that have defined his illustrious 25-year career in the creative industry.
Ben has not only worked with a vast spectrum of clients but has redefined the way brands engage with their audiences. From crafting visceral lamppost stickers to directing riveting 90-minute documentaries, his projects encapsulate the essence of innovation and impact. His portfolio is a parade of who’s who in global industries, including giants like Toyota, Audi, Virgin, LG, and Puma, showcasing his versatility and creative prowess.
His knack for turning conventional into exceptional is evident in every campaign, where he employs a deep understanding of market dynamics to break through the clutter. Ben's work spans across multiple sectors—automotive, electronics, telecommunications, finance, fashion, and more—always finding the pulse of the audience to deliver messages that not only stand out but also stick.
Ben's approach is not just about making waves—it's about making a difference. His campaigns are crafted with an eye for both aesthetic appeal and profound impact, whether it’s elevating brand narratives or driving forward important social and environmental causes. With Ben, it's not just about meeting the brief but about surpassing expectations and leaving a lasting legacy.