Jim Michelson, Chairman

Jim began his career in advertising with Simons Michelson Company (SMZ’s predecessor) in 1964 and today has overall responsibility for agency management. Throughout his career, he has helped build and sustain strong client partnerships: 30+ years with Big Boy Restaurants, 15 with TV20 and an unprecedented 12 years with the Michigan Lottery, for example. He’s deeply committed to the philosophy of doing whatever it takes to provide responsive, high quality service to clients.

What was your finest moment in the business?
Creating Lauder’s King of the Hill celebrity tennis tour, a very successful multi-city charity fundraising event that began long before the advent of sports and event marketing in the industry.

Do you have a method for coming up with ideas?
I’ve always relied on listening, reading, brainstorming and getting thoroughly familiar with our clients’ businesses and their marketing challenges.

What do you see as your main role at the agency?
I’ve built my career on expertise in strategic marketing planning. To that end, I work to bring a clear, rational planning approach to what is essentially a highly intuitive profession. My mission is to instill the spirit of that philosophy into every member of the agency.

Is there any food that helps you think more creatively?
No, but steak has made my life a lot more enjoyable.