Laura Gallagher

President

Laura Gallagher is a community, local, and national business leader serving successful entrepreneurial companies and non-profit organizations in Madison, Wisconsin and throughout the United States.

As the founder and leader of The Creative Company, she has created an organization that has been recognized twice in the last 5 years as one of the Best Places to Work in Madison. Her company was named a finalist in the 2006 WI Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Business Ethics and Integrity. In 2010, the agency took home more Alchemy awards than other PR firm in Madison and the agency's digital arm has also received national recognition.

Her servant heart has made a difference in the lives of many. Personally, she is committed to organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club who provide hope for children living in challenging circumstances. She also helps women and children through several other local ministries including SOULutions and The River Food Pantry.

In 2010, the company began hosting Leader to Leader events at Creative Company. These events are meant to bring leaders together to create positive change in their businesses and the community as a whole.

Laura is also serving her second term on the board of directors for the National Retail Federation's Retail Advertising and Marketing Association, where she co-chairs the Communications Committee.

Laura also leads the Arts Affinity Group for Blackhawk Church and is the creator of a Ning Network called Soul to Soul which focuses on leadership, music and the arts through ministry.

Laura is also serving her second term on the board of directors for the National Retail Federation's Retail Advertising and Marketing Association, where she co-chairs the Communications Committee.

Kara R. Hanko

Publicist

As lead publicist at The Creative Company, Kara finds the story behind the story and develops comprehensive public relations strategies for each client. She communicates these stories to the media, working with them to find the best story angle. She loves helping the Creative Company’s clients see results from what they do and letting everyone know about how spectacular they are. She is constantly making new connections and friends and is always glad to help anyone out by answering questions or lending a hand.  She is unfailingly kind and supportive in everything she does. She is also a news junkie.  Whether it is for local stories or national headlines, there is no living in a bubble for this woman.  Kara is on top of what is going on in the world and regularly shares new tidbits with coworkers and clients.

Kara graduated from University College Falmouth in Falmouth, England where she earned a BA Honors in Journalism. Before joining The Creative Company, she worked as an account executive for a public relations agency in Truro, England. Kara's previous clients included companies in the fields of environmental technology, healthcare, publishing, public transportation and more. She also worked on a large regeneration project between two small towns: Redruth and Camborne, England.

Kara is on the board of directors of the Public Relations Society of America – Madison Chapter where she serves as treasurer. She also co-chairs the Public Relations Society of America Alchemy Awards.

Ian C. McNamara

Media Developer

Ian expertly writes code for ezines, microsites and websites, using coding languages including HTML, CSS, PHP, JavaScript, ActionScript, Java and MySQL. He integrates his design talent on web design and ezine projects as well, allowing him to see projects through from idea to publishing. He is also in charge of uploading the profile images on this page.
Ian is capable of making code work like clockwork while seamlessly integrating functionality and design. He is also well versed in diagnosing and troubleshooting web issues and integrating search engine optimization tactics to any website. He is always thinking of a better way to complete a project, and when you talk to him you can see the gears turning. He doesn't rest until it is the best it can be, and seems to like troubleshooting: it is a learning experience, after all.

Ian is a skilled photographer. He loves books and movies and holds regular board game nights with friends. A favorite is Genus Trivial Pursuit 1981.  He's also a talented writer and calligraphist.

Katherine Arnesen

Graphic & Digital Media Designer

Katherine, or KT, is more than a graphic designer. She is an award winning media designer, drawing on her 20+ years of experience for each and every piece she creates. KT has been nationally recognized for her design, taking silver at the 2011 national American Advertising Federation’s annual ADDY Awards. Trained in design programs such as Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop, KT uses her keen eye to ensure that your visual brand message is carried out at every touchpoint in a campaign. KT Also has a bachelors degree in television production which she puts to use as she edits videos.
KT's design tactics and work ethic ensure that Creative Company clients' visual brand is consistent across their marketing pieces, while her out of the box style and eye for design have earned local and national awards.
A passion for art allows KT to soar and be creative, but her dedication to her family fulfills her. She loves learning, regularly attending conferences, like the annual HOW conference on design, to interact with peers and learn the latest design techniques.

Amy Manzetti

Communications Specialist/Executive Assistant

Amy joins The Creative Company as an accomplished communications professional. She has worked for companies such as CUNA & Affiliates as an assistant editor, and Lands’ End as a media relations assistant. She received her bachelor’s degree in speech communications from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Along with her previous work experience, Amy also brings a commitment to helping our staff and clients, professional organizational skills, and the desire to see projects completed. A passion for working with people, learning new things, and dedication to family are what drives Amy to do her best work. She enjoys writing, editing, and organizing and helping others. She also enjoys volunteer work, running, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Eric Rhynes

Graphic & Web Designer / Developer

Eric joins The Creative Company as a web developer and graphic designer. He writes code using HTML, CSS, PHP, and JavaScript. He has extensive training in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and print production. He loves bleeding edge technology, oil painting and games, both computer and tabletop.
He is an avid digital and film photographer and is steadily converting his thousands of slides and negatives to digital format. His knowledge of web design and development is a great asset to the already comprehensive web services we offer at The Creative Company.
Prior to the transition to web and graphic design, Eric obtained a degree in Biology from Northland College in Wisconsin, and was a Fisheries Technician and later a chemist for several years in a Wisconsin based chemical analysis laboratory. He was a certified Secondary Education instructor and taught 6th grade life science. He loves the educational aspect of The Creative Company, and continues to learn as a member of Design Madison and AIGA.

Jill Patrick

Project Manager

Jill joins The Creative Company as a former Video Producer. She has worked for companies such as ProVideo & Film, WISC-Channel 3, and National Geographic Maps. Jill received her undergraduate degree in Marketing and Geography from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Business in addition to a graduate degree in geography from the University of Montana-Missoula. A passion for organization has led Jill into the role of Project Manager at The Creative Company. Juggling multiple projects is Jill’s forte, always making sure each project has everything it needs from start to finish. In addition to her past work experience, Jill has worked as an Adventure Tour Guide leading groups on trips throughout the United States and Canada. Along with traveling, Jill enjoys running, playing tennis, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Jeffrey Traxler

Accounting Specialist

Jeff comes to The Creative Company from KPMG, a worldwide audit, tax and advisory firm where he worked in transaction services. He is also currently enrolled in the 5-year Integrated Masters of Accountancy graduate program offered through the UW–Madison School of Business. Fluent in French, Jeff enjoys travelling all across the globe, giving him an international perspective on the field. When he is not travelling, he enjoys playing basketball and volleyball.