The Reel Black List: Aubrey Walker, Advertising Guru

Aubrey Walker

Aubrey Walker

Aubrey Walker is a 15-year Creative originally from Milwaukee, WI. Aubrey has worked
for such agencies as Burrell, Carol H. Williams, MKTG, GMR, Globalhue and The True
Agency. His accounts have ranged from Nike, Gatorade to Jeep and Bombay Sapphire.

Currently, Aubrey is the CCO of his newly formed started shop called, TEACHERS NEVER LIKED US.

 
 
What was your first break?

An opportunity to create a campaign for Coors Light as a Junior Writer. I was in over my head, but I had the right mentors to help guide me through the process.

 

Worst thing that ever happened to you to remind you that you are black?<

I live with being Black daily so I know what to expect. At the end of the day we all have those “worst” stories, but I’d like to think it was my up bringing, my parents guidance and my internal hustle that elevate me above all that b.s.

 

Best thing to ever happen to you to remind you that you are black?

Looking at my son’s beautiful skin.

 

Work you are most proud of?

Most definitely the Jeep x Call of Duty partnership and campaign. At that time, Jeep had no idea how massive the COD franchise was. So it took a lot of selling and convincing, but at the end of the day it turned out dope for both parties.

 

How has the business changed since you broke in?

The business is essentially the same, but there are two things that have changed, timing and production budgets. Social and Digital have changed our business in an interesting way. It’s quick, it’s war rooms – it separates the dope creatives from the average ones. Budgets were amazing 10 years ago. Jeez.

 

Trapped on an island what are the creative essentials you must have?

A box of Field Notes, Sharpies and a solar powered radio.

 

If you had a time machine, what would you say to your past self?

Take the summer trip to Japan. Who cares that you’re only 13!? There’s absolutely nothing to be afraid of. Take a camera, a journal and don’t turn your nose up to food you’re not familiar with.

 

If you could have a one-on-one with anyone who would it be? And why?

Ryan Coogler. I think what he’s accomplished in so little time is amazing. I’m interested in his process to create excellent films that touch the heart in such a raw way.

 
To see learn about other people on the Reel Chicago Black List, click here.