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Andrés Ordóñez of FCB on Extra Gum and More
At the end of the day, It's all about lifting up others
With 20+ years of experience, Andrés was named FCB’s global chief creative officer in 2024, moving into the role after a four-year tenure as CCO for FCB Chicago. Notable campaigns include “Contract for Change” for Michelob Ultra, “Banned Book Club” for the Digital Public Library of America, “Adopt-a-Stray” for Fresh Step, “HVR X HVR” for Hidden Valley Ranch and “Boards of Change” for the City of Chicago.
We spent two minutes with Andrés to learn more about his background, his creative inspirations and recent work he’s admired.
Andrés, tell us …
Where you grew up, and where you live now.
I grew up in Bogotá, Colombia, and now live in Chicago.
How you first realized you were creative.
My dad had an agency and my mom was a model. I spent a lot of time hanging out at dad’s office, drawing and brainstorming with the creatives.
A person you idolized creatively early on.
Marcelo Serpa. His work and perspective on creativity were huge.
A moment from high school or college that changed your life.
My dad wanted me to study finance, so I was doing that with a minor in arts. One day, my art teacher asked why I wasn’t focusing on advertising and suggested I check out the Miami Ad School. I quit college and applied to MAS. It was the best decision I ever made.
A visual artist or band/musician you admire.
Prince. The guy was a creative force like no other.
A book, movie, TV show or podcast you recently found inspiring.
I’m into ultramarathons … so I’m hooked on the For the Long Run podcast.
One of your favorite creative projects you’ve ever worked on.
“The Story of Sarah and Juan” for Extra Gum. I am not crying.
A recent project you’re proud of.
Someone else’s work that inspired you years ago.
Apple’s “Misunderstood” (2013). It showed us that technology can be a connector and not a distractor, and taught us how to do beautiful demos.
Someone else’s work you admired lately.
The Sydney Opera House 50th anniversary. Beautiful in so many ways.
Your main strength as a creative person.
I’m a connector. I love bringing people and ideas together to create something meaningful. We are better together.
Your biggest weakness.
Always wanting more. It’s a double-edged sword—great for pushing boundaries, but it can make you restless.
A mentor that helped you navigate the industry.
Ramiro Millán. Miss him. He was my guiding light through the ups and downs of this crazy industry.
How you’re paying it forward with the next generation of creatives.
I remind myself that everything we do opens or closes doors for the next generation. That keeps me grounded and focused on making choices that lift others up.
2 Minutes With is our regular interview series where we chat with creatives about their backgrounds, creative inspirations, work they admire and more. For more about 2 Minutes With, or to be considered for the series, please get in touch.
