01 / 03
Orient
Brands accumulate meaning in the course of everyday operations. My work collects that meaning and clarifies it, giving organizations a window into how they're positioned and where they want to go.
About
Leading with curiosity
My collaborations are built on the joy of discovery—recognizing patterns and expanding our shared notion of what’s possible. What stories do we tell ourselves, and what stories emerge around us as we grow? I help mission-driven organizations get clear on their narrative and build work that brings it to life.
Method
02 / 03
Curate
After listening and learning, I pull at the threads of what sets an organization apart to assemble design strategies and messaging structures that become a foundation for growth.
03 / 03
Build
I create processes and systems to help communications scale, and collaborate on workshops and activations that help marketing teams dream bigger.
I'm Martin. I help people and organizations find their story and shape public attention.
I have a hands-on approach to communications strategy informed by training in design thinking with Stanford d.school alums, the ideation tools of Duncan Wardle, and field research methodologies developed by Studio D’s Jan Chipchase.
My empathy-driven approach aligns with the ethic of mission-driven organizations and I prioritize accessibility, inclusion, and diverse perspectives in every project. I’ve partnered extensively with human service organizations and social enterprises, as well as companies in architecture and engineering, healthcare, and finance.
As the director of creative services at Abel Communications, I build large-scale brand strategy engagements, develop and execute marketing campaigns, and lead our IdeaLab workshops. I’m currently available for select independent consulting, partnering with Abel to realize full-service and integrated programs. I also serve as director of communications for the Jones Falls Watershed Strategic Plan, and co-artistic director for Otherwise Theatre Co.
Find me furiously scribbling ideas into my Leuchtturm1917, adding to an ever-growing Jenga tower of notebooks.
- Recognition
- PRSA Maryland, Best in Maryland · AMA Baltimore, Gold · Bowery Awards, Finalist
Selected work
- Jones Falls Watershed Strategic PlanIdentity development and messaging, web design, brand management, steering committee and stakeholder engagement, experience and event support
- Civic Works*Listening and discovery, messaging guide, visual brand system refresh, outreach and engagement council, key collateral design, web development handoff
- Wide Angle Youth MediaServed 5 years on Communications Committee, donor engagement recommendations and support, giving campaign strategy, website redesign council, recruiting support
- The League For People With Disabilities*IdeaLab workshops and board engagement, campaign creative direction and messaging architecture, stakeholder activation and outreach, multi-platform content strategy
- Regional Utility*Field observation and site visits, public communication audit, focus groups, outreach strategy and campaign concepts, non-profit partnership consulting
- Gateway Maryland*Site visits, empathy interviews and communications audit for comprehensive messaging architecture development to inform strategic plan
AlsoInternational Rescue Committee | No Kid Hungry* | NAMI | Itineris MD* | Modjeski and Masters* | Living Design Lab* | CHAI Baltimore* | CRGA Design*
* with Abel Communications
Clarity brings confidence.
Bringing in an outside eye uncovers risk and opportunity, establishes common ground before big decisions, and brings people together around a shared story. Your team comes away with a fresh yardstick for what’s possible.
Say hello.