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NOVATO, USA // Since joining 2K, one of the world’s premiere video game developer and publishing labels, in 2019, Sami Thessman, Senior Vice President of Global Creative, has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing 2K’s marketing and advertising strategy. As the driving force to evolve 2K’s creative efforts, Thessman has effectively changed the marketing game for all 2K sports titles – NBA 2K, WWE 2K, PGA TOUR 2K and most recently TopSpin 2K, a revival of the beloved tennis video game franchise, not to mention his work on acclaimed non-sports series including Borderlands, Mafia, LEGO 2K Drive and more.

With the goal of building player-first games that excite, engage, and leave a lasting impression on the fans long after a game launches, 2K relies on authentic creativity that helps further connections with our players - making Thessman’s work critical to company success. On par with 2K’s brand value of “Come As You Are,” a culture where employees are empowered to do their best work, 2K games break through amongst other entertainment options by focusing on personal empowerment, giving players a long term relationship with 2K and within their community. This strong culture, when coupled with an award-winning creative strategy led by Thessman and his team, help aid in company reputation and meet the high expectations that their 2K community has when they play one of their games.

Throughout his career, Thessman has already achieved a total of two Clio awards for Illustration and Digital Key Art categories. Last year, 2K received 13 game award nominations, released 17 titles, editions, and collections, and achieved over 39 million followers on all social channels, speaking to Thessman’s ability to help drive brand growth and recognition.

Prior to joining 2K, Thessman was the chief creative officer of Wunderman New York.In this role, Sami was leading all the creative efforts for the agency’s roster of clients, including United Airlines, Coca-Cola, E*TRADE and Dannon.

Before Wunderman, Thessman served as global executive creative director for Infiniti, as well as executive creative director for TBWA\ Hong Kong, leading global brands including Nissan, McDonald's, adidas, MasterCard, Standard Chartered Bank and AIA.