‍

Nico Puertollano, founder of New York City and Manilla-based creative agency Rezonate, has joined Versus as executive creative director. After two decades of building Rezonate, that commercial client portfolio is transitioning to Versus, further expanding the studio’s capabilities across design, animation, storytelling and brand experiences.

RELATED: For Michele Fino, All Content Is Branded

"Nico has built an incredible body of work and a creative practice rooted in curiosity, craft and cultural relevance," said Justin Barnes, ECD and co-founder of Versus, in a statement. "He brings a unique perspective as both a creative leader and entrepreneur, and we're excited to welcome him to the team as we continue to grow and evolve the studio."

At Versus, Puertollano will help lead the studio's creative while working across its growing portfolio of brand, entertainment and innovation clients. 

“Justin was one of the first people who encouraged me to embrace my identity as a Filipino immigrant and New Yorker, and to recognize the value that perspective could bring to both the work and the brands behind it. That advice stayed with me and helped shape the creative philosophy behind Rezonate,” Puertollano said, also in a statement.

“Versus has always been a studio I admired. Whenever we found ourselves on opposite sides of a pitch, I couldn’t help but respect the work, the culture, and what Filipinos would call the ‘angas’ of the studio, a confidence that comes from knowing who you are and what you stand for. There was a fearlessness in what they built that always resonated with me. To now be joining a team I’ve respected for so long feels incredibly meaningful, and I’m excited for what we’ll create together.”

The appointment continues a period of growth for Versus as the studio expands its creative leadership team and invests in new capabilities. Recent additions, including Executive Creative Director Rosie Garschina, Executive Producer Kevin Anderson, and now Puertollano, reflect the studio's commitment to bringing together top creative talent across design, entertainment, storytelling, production and innovation.