We’re thrilled to have Patrick Locy join our Slide Nine team as head of experience and operations. Patrick Locy has helped global brands tell their stories, built some really incredible campaigns, and served as a strategic advisor for clients and agency leaders. In addition, he co-founded an organization that supports and uplifts underrepresented founders and is active in Columbus’ music and arts communities.

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What brings you joy at work? What inspires you?

I get to work alongside inquisitive, creative people to shape the world around us. I’m continually inspired by the infinite potential of storytelling and the opportunities our work creates to meet and learn from so many unique and interesting folks. 

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What drew you to the communications field?

As a perpetually curious person, the ever-changing nature of the work is a perfect fit. Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to learn about and work in support of hundreds of organizations and industries, solve a never-ending stream of unique challenges, and have a lot of fun doing it. Getting to collaborate with talented people and make a real impact on brands and audiences is incredibly rewarding.

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‍How do you approach creating a memorable client experience?

How the work gets done is important, but more than anything, people will always remember your efforts to understand them and guide them through an experience that’s often new, a little confusing, and moving quickly. 

I want clients to see our team as a partner, not a vendor; we understand your goals, we know how to get there, and we’re excited to make it all happen, together. 

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‍What trends are you keeping an eye on for 2024?

• Generative AI: Its rapid evolution is fascinating—will it help us become better, more fulfilled people, or bring about the end of humanity? Perhaps a bit of both. Stay tuned.
• A Return to Offline Experiences: In our hyper-connected world, there’s a growing nostalgia for unplugging and embracing meaningful face-to-face interactions.
• Bringing Back Fun: It’s a scary world out there, and as we continue to navigate particularly challenging times, there’s a renewed emphasis on injecting joy and playfulness into everyday experiences.

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‍What’s the biggest win or most exciting work you’ve done throughout your career?

I’ve been fortunate to work on unique and notable projects, but I often come back to a partnership with the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum that launched “Ignite Tomorrow,” a campaign designed to raise (many) millions to modernize the museum and its awe-inspiring collection of artifacts and inspire a new generation of explorers. 

Ever wondered how to turn a group of experienced creatives into kids again? Just let them stand next to Neil Armstrong’s spacesuit and call it 'the Discovery process.' 

It was a wonderful opportunity with incredible clients—a once-in-a-lifetime chance to tell the many incredible stories of one of the world’s most-loved museums and work I am forever proud of.

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What tools/websites do you use to keep up with the latest trends and news?

I’m a big fan of:

• Axios daily quick-hit updates for local news and headline summaries
• Substack newsletters for deep dives and niche topics
• Time with my brilliant friends and colleagues to make sense of it all

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‍What are you listening to while focusing on getting work done?

I spend a lot of time with music podcasts (much love for “60 Songs That Explain The ‘90s,” hosted by Ohioan Rob Harvilla, and “Bandsplain” with Yasi Salek.)

As a former radio DJ, I also excel at overthinking the “what should I listen to next” process, exploring countless options before settling on an album I listen to repeatedly until discovering something new to obsess over for a week or two.

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What are you most looking forward to in your role with Slide Nine?

I’m looking forward to advancing Slide Nine’s innovative approach to agency operations, helping drive responsible growth, and amplifying the positive impact the agency can have on its teams, clients, and the communities it supports.