Michael Catanzaro

Before joining The Brand Leader, Michael worked on both the agency and client side, shaping work for ASICS, adidas Golf, Monster Energy, MoneyGram, Elevate Financial/RISE, Boston Scientific, and UC San Diego. His approach stays consistent no matter the category: find the truth of the product, understand the human tension around it, and translate it into ideas that people actually feel—not just see.

Today at The Brand Leader, Michael helps lead the agency into its next era of digital-first, brand-driven growth. He partners with clients and their marketing and brand teams across strategy, creative, content, performance, and AI-powered production—making sure every idea connects back to the business and the people it serves.

What he loves most is watching a brand “click.” That moment when the story sharpens, the team aligns, and the work suddenly feels obvious—in the best way. For Michael, the real reward is seeing campaigns land, clients gain confidence, and agency teams feel the pride that comes from doing great work together.

Outside the office, Michael is exploring the Carolinas with his wife and their dog, Remy—hiking trails, wandering small towns, cooking and eating good food, and soaking up a slower, more intentional way of living. It’s become the kind of everyday inspiration that fuels his creativity and keeps him writing, making music, and dreaming up whatever comes next.