Some of what they say about me.
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during his time as Global Creative Director at Lockton. David has a rare ability to lead creative professionals in a way that’s both visionary and deeply human. He doesn’t take a one-size-fits-all approach — instead, he listens, adapts, and helps people show up as the best version of themselves.
Under his leadership, I was able to lean into my strengths in a way that felt both natural and impactful. That kind of intuitive and empathetic management is hard to come by, especially in fast-paced creative environments. He brings high energy, clarity of vision, and the ability to rally people toward meaningful, strategic outcomes. Any team would be lucky to have his kind of leadership at the helm.”
— Jonna Shaw, Creative Manager, Lockton -
David proved to be exceptionally creative as well as an excellent leader in the strategy of this large team. His direction, guidance and mentorship of talent was unsurpassed.
David was challenged to provide best-in-class marketing collateral and technical communication in diverse markets and develop a strategy to align with the business needs.
David exemplified dedication to contribute at the highest level. This was no small undertaking. It was critical to meet the needs of a diverse group of executives and make them all feel their needs were first and most important, while keeping his large team focused on delivering.
I do not hesitate to highly recommend David.”
— Shirley McMillan, Creative Services Manager, Director of Administrative Services, Lockton -
the people around him and why it matters. He doesn't shy away from the hard thing. And often thinks of the angle no one else would have arrived at.”
— Justin Watkins, CEO, Native Digital
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As I was conducting my last interview for my first corporate position, meeting the Creative Director was nothing short of intimidating. However, it was clear to me within a few short minutes that David led with curiosity and compassion over criticalness and close-mindedness. He was thorough and asked thoughtful, careful questions to assess if I was fit for the position. While this was a huge interview for my career, I felt comfortable – even excited – to share my work experience, artistic passion, and interests. With David, I could sense that he had the ability to facilitate inspiration and growth where there was potential.
David’s ability to lead others towards success was proven many times over. He fostered positivity, thoughtfulness, and integrity in the culture of our creative team. He led by example – always encouraging open communication, collaboration, and genuine care. Although David prioritized balance and kindness towards his staff, he also had high expectations for our team to support the company and each other. David was able to express these expectations – ability to work under pressure, conscientious collaboration, and adaptability – without once giving an authoritarian or persnickety energy. He never micromanaged. Instead, he offered flexibility, patience, and guidance towards these goals.
I noticed that David does an excellent job balancing providing exceptional support for our clients and the company with the wellbeing and happiness of his employees.
In short, David Gilbertson is one of the most encouraging, positive, thoughtful, and talented leaders I have had the opportunity to meet. I am proud to have worked with him. Any team would be lucky to have him.”— Hannah Byers, Associate Graphic Designer, Lockton
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always valuing the creative input of individuals and new ideas shared by the team. He made time to ensure that everyone's voice was heard, creating an environment where innovation was possible.
David had the ability to challenge and inspire. He didn’t just accept the status quo; he encouraged me and the team to push the boundaries of what was possible, helping us to grow both creatively and professionally. His approach was always constructive and empowering, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. David is a true people person who is built on trust and relationships.
His empathetic nature fostered an atmosphere of sincerity and collaboration, making him not only an excellent creative leader but also a trusted mentor and advocate for career development. He always took the time to guide and support me in my professional growth, encouraging me to aim higher and offering constructive feedback along the way. A natural creative problem solver, David was always ready to face challenges with fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
A true creative visionary — anyone would be fortunate enough to work with him.”
— Carolyn Thompson, Art Director, Lockton
Allow me to reintroduce myself.
The reason I work
My family is what gets me out of bed most mornings. They've pushed me to maximize my gifts, taught me patience, accountability, and trust, and continue to remind me why the work matters. They also eat a lot of eggs.
Family has also been the greatest refiner of my leadership. Marriage and raising five kids have taught me that trust isn't automatic — it requires intentional investment, different people need different things to thrive, and coaching always moves at the speed of relationship.
Those lessons have shaped my leadership as much as any seminar or experience in my career.
How I Got Here
I studied Graphic Design at Iowa State University and have spent more than twenty years working across branding, print, experiential, video, motion, digital, and web.
Early in my career, I worried that knowing a little about everything meant I'd never become exceptional at anything. Over time, I found the opposite to be true.
Working across disciplines taught me how creative, marketing, and development teams think, what they need to succeed, and how to translate ideas between them. What once felt like a lack of specialization became one of my greatest strengths as a creative leader.
What Changed
At some point, my creative problem-solving stopped being primarily about campaigns and deliverables and became about people, organizations, and systems.
I found myself asking questions:
Why do some teams consistently produce great work while others struggle?
What builds trust?
How do creative leaders create environments where people can thrive?
How do systems support creativity rather than restrict it?
Those questions have shaped the second half of my career.
I've learned that insight alone isn't enough. Good leadership requires humility, experimentation, and the willingness to keep learning.
How I Lead
The foundation of my leadership philosophy is trust.
I believe the best creative work happens when people feel safe enough to contribute honestly, challenge one another respectfully, and pursue outcomes that benefit both the individual and the organization.
I've learned from frameworks like The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and the X Model of Engagement, but just as much from construction crews, agency teams, churches, and family life.
Leadership is ultimately less about having the right answers than creating the conditions where great work can happen.