About me
Welcome to my world of creativity! I'm Zach Edmunds, and my journey started in 4th grade as the elementary school newspaper editor, proposing font changes that showcased my early love of design. Throughout high school, I delved into technology, designing websites and constructing computers.
Despite initially pursuing Computer Science at Penn State, my heart craved creative endeavors. Shifting gears, I majored in Film and Video, combining graphic design, web design, video editing, and cinematography.
Professionally, a pivotal role at Series A start-up, Vessel, enriched my understanding of content and creative marketing alongside experts from Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon. From there, I transitioned from individual contributor to Manager, Brand Strategy & Creative at Verizon, overseeing content production and pitching creative briefs.
Now at Rekor, I wear multiple hats, leading branding, creative, and marketing strategy. My team and I spearheaded campaigns resulting in a 163% increase in website engagement time and 35% paid subscription surge. Our comprehensive creative work have greatly contributed to Rekor's share price growth of over 300%.
My passion lies in assisting new brands, crafting compelling content, and showcasing inherent value. Join me on this transformative journey, where every project is an opportunity to make a lasting impact!
πΌ Experience
Rekor Systems, Inc.
Director, Brand & Creative
2019 - Present
Columbia, MD
π’ Cultivated Rekor brand from company inception while establishing company-wide templates, processes, and conventions
π Designed and published Rekor and OpenALPR websites using Figma and Webflow
π¨ Created brand identity, strategy, and voice while implementing Digital Asset Management system for asset sharing
π Implemented Google Analytics, HubSpot, Salesforce, and other tools for tracking the customer lifecycle and additional KPIs
π£οΈ Lead a multifaceted brand team for all graphic design, video production, copywriting, and social media
ποΈ Produced βThe Infrastructorsβ podcast for distribution on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts
Rekor is an AI-powered technology company that provides essential roadway intelligence through innovative hardware and software solutions. Rekorβs solutions enable cities to protect the public and ensure that drivers are moving safely and efficiently.
go90 by Verizon
Social Media Manager
2018 - 2018
New York, NY
π£ Operated social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram)
π Designed all creative assets for both paid and organic social
βοΈ Wrote engaging copy targeted at increasing influencer retention and product adoption
ποΈ Created and organized content calendar to increase output
π Measured viewership and other important KPIs
go90 was a mobile-first video streaming service positioned as a "social entertainment platform" targeted primarily towards millennials, featuring a mix of exclusive and acquired content from various providers.
Verizon, Media and Entertainment
Manager, Brand Strategy & Creative
2017 - 2018
New York, NY
π Promoted and relocated to position in the fall of 2017
π Directed creative agencies in the development of all artwork and video spots associated with the go90 video streaming service
π Influenced brand strategy, creative execution, communications planning, and audience growth
π Preserved consistent brand messaging across multiple Verizon-owned properties
Verizon Media & Entertainment is a division of Verizon focused on accelerating innovation in media and entertainment through advanced IT solutions and services that leverage Verizon's vast cellular network.
Vessel
Content Operations & Partner Manager
2015 - 2017
San Francisco, CA
π€ Managed relationships with 100+ media partners (including Discovery, Machinima, IGN, Playboy, Mashable, and top YouTubers)
β¬οΈ Acquired media partners to grow video library from 50 to 250+ content providers and influencers
π« Trained partners with content specs, test assets, and feedback to improve content quality
πΌοΈ Designed brand graphics for 900+ shows and series
Vessel was a premium commercial video service launched by former Hulu executives. Viewers could watch videos from their favorite online creators and influencers before the videos were released to the general public. Vessel was acquired by Verizon in 2016.
Cal Athletics
Video Coordinator
2013 - 2015
Berkeley, CA
π¬ Filmed, edited, and produced marketing, feature, press conference, and highlight videos
ποΈ Designed graphics for website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube
πΊ Modernized YouTube channel with new graphics, playlists, and organization to increase viewership
π
Promoted to βSocial Media Teamβ after showing a keen understanding of social trends
The California Golden Bears are the athletic teams that represent the University of California, Berkeley. The Brand and Digital team create compelling graphic and video content to promote all sports on CalBears.com and social media.
USA Water Polo
Video Producer
2012 - 2013
Huntington Beach, CA
ποΈ Oversaw all video production, editing, and live webcasts
πΉ Served as principal photographer and videographer for media events, competitions, and games
π Redesigned the official USA Water Polo eCommerce store
β¬οΈ Increased YouTube subscriber count by 300%
USA Water Polo is the governing body of the sport of water polo in the United States and is a member of the United States Aquatic Sports. USA Water Polo is responsible for fielding national teams and hosts 20 annual tournaments.
Penn State Football
Media Producer
2010 - 2012
University Park, PA
πΌ Produced, directed, and edited video content -- featured online, during games, and on TV
π€ Interviewed players, coaches, and NFL alumni for video features
πΈ Served as on-field photographer and videographer during games
ποΈ Designed promotional flyers, billboards, logos, posters, and other artwork
π Created and maintained digital campaigns for Penn State Football website and social media
The Penn State Nittany Lions team represents the Pennsylvania State University in college football. The Nittany Lions compete in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision as a member of the Big Ten Conference.