Making the world
more beautiful.
Don’t skip this part!
I’m Russell Houghtaling – a creative leader and strategist who has spent my career helping brands break through the noise in experiential, sports and events, while empowering people to become the best versions of themselves.
From the sidelines of the FIFA World Cup to the headlines at the Olympics, I’ve made a career out of elevating sports and events.
The Work
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FIFA WORLD CUP 2026
Client: Visa
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![Lilly]()
LILLY ESPNW SUMMIT
Client: Lilly
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MILANO CORTINA 2026 MEGASTORE
Client: Visa
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![Inside a retail store featuring a large illuminated Visa sign, colorful decor, and digital checkout kiosks, with a person in a pink shirt at the checkout area.]()
OLYMPIC MEGASTORE PARIS 2024
Client: Visa
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![Person taking a photo of a brick wall with graffiti that reads 'Braves to the World' while wearing a black Omaha baseball cap and a red jacket with 'National Champions' written on the back.]()
BEAVER IN-HOUSE AGENCY
Client: OSU Athletics
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![Group of people at a FIFA World Cup event taking a photo with a Portugal flag, standing inside a blue frame with the VISA logo and text indicating they visited Lusail Stadium, night scene with bright lights.]()
FIFA WORLD CUP 2022
Client: Visa
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![A stadium with the signage "Completing Reser Stadium" in front, surrounded by trees and parking, with mountains in the background and a "Go Beavs" sign on a building.]()
COMPLETING RESER STADIUM
Client: OSU Athletics
Strategy and Action for the Real World
I shape brand strategy that works in the real world with clear, grounded, research-backed and culturally insightful. I’ve helped brands navigate complex partnerships, including aligning with the IOC and FIFA, and led internal and external strategy from core messaging to full campaign architecture. I’m experienced in managing global creative teams and international vendors to deliver cohesive brand experiences across regions, audiences, and cultures.
Brands
