Gianfranco Fagotto

My career has taken me through agency and in-house roles at renowned companies like NetJets, Liz Earle Beauty, and the Financial Times’ content agency, where I’ve had the privilege of creating innovative work that drives measurable results for leading international brands.

During my interview, we imagined my fantasy cultural year—a playful dive into creativity, culture, and unexpected surprises.

I was born in Ecuador to an Ecuadorian mother and an Italian father. I spent my childhood as a “tiny globetrotter,” moving through Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Europe. Growing up immersed in such diverse cultures gave me a deep appreciation for storytelling, creativity, and the power of human connection. These experiences shaped my approach to work, where I prioritize empathy, kindness, and integrity as the foundation for solving problems and achieving meaningful outcomes for my clients.

My creative journey began in Milan in the 2000s as an editorial designer for fashion magazines. In 2008, I moved to London, joining Liz Earle Beauty in 2010 and later becoming Head of Design at NetJets in 2013. At NetJets, I spearheaded a transformative post-merger rebranding and led global advertising campaigns that defined the brand’s identity.

From 2016 to 2022, I worked as Art Director at the Financial Times’ in-house content agency, leading branded content campaigns for incredible clients like AWS, BlackRock, BMW, Google Cloud, and Piaget Watches. Each project gave me the opportunity to merge strategic insight with creative innovation.

Since 2023, I’ve been working as a freelance creative leader, consulting on brand development projects for startups and established companies in aviation, hospitality, and the healthy beverage industry. I’m also proud to mentor at the University of Westminster, helping graduates launch their creative careers.

I like to call myself a “pragmatic dreamer,” someone who thrives on turning ambitious visions into tangible success. Outside of work, I express my artistic passions through illustration and music, which I share on my Personal Index website. This creative outlet allows me to explore new artistic territories and reinforces my belief in the transformative power of creativity.