Banking ads aren’t exactly known for their comedy chops, but Schafer Condon Carter (SCC) is changing that with a sharp and witty new campaign for Old National Bank (ONB). The Chicago-based independent creative agency has crafted a series of humor-driven spots that highlight ONB’s deep commitment to client relationships—without the usual financial jargon.
Launching across TV, CTV, OLV, digital, and radio this week, the campaign builds on ONB’s Get Old platform, positioning the bank as a trusted financial partner for individuals and small businesses. The spots use relatable, real-world humor to show how ONB bankers truly understand their clients’ realities.
SCC set out to disrupt the traditional jargon-heavy bank ad playbook, leaning instead into humor and human experiences that feel genuinely relatable. By weaving natural dialogue, comedic timing and authenticity, the campaign gives ONB a distinct and approachable voice that stands out in a category often dominated by corporate messaging.
“Great creative comes from brands willing to lean into real, human moments,” said Craig Miller, Chief Creative Officer at SCC. “With ONB, we saw an opportunity to create a campaign that feels like real life—unscripted, humorous, and culturally relevant.”
The four new spots cleverly showcase ONB’s client-first mentality through relatable, everyday scenarios. Coach (Wealth Management) draws a parallel between teamwork in sports and the collaborative approach to wealth management. Boom (Community Bank) humorously illustrates how quickly word spreads when a great bonus offer becomes available—sometimes a little too fast.
Menu (Community Bank) captures the dynamic of a strong relationship, where even when a couple seems distracted, they’re still in sync. Finally, Elevator (Small Business) plays on the classic concept of the “elevator pitch,” showing that the most impressive sales moments can happen in the most unexpected places. Watch below:
“This campaign reflects what makes Old National Bank unique—our focus on real relationships and supporting our clients’ financial journeys,” said Jim Stadler, CMO at ONB. “We’re thrilled to work with SCC to bring this message to life in an engaging, impactful way.”
A Director with Comedy Cred
Bringing the campaign’s humor to life is Jeff Tomsic, director of major comedy films and series. His expertise in capturing natural, conversational realism has shaped ONB’s brand voice across multiple campaigns.
“This isn’t just another set of bank ads—it’s a continuation of a tone and style we’ve built together over the years,” said Tomsic, Director at Community Films. “ONB feels like a brand that actually gets its customers.”
SCC’s approach challenges the industry’s traditional, buttoned-up playbook by leaning into humor, authenticity, and natural dialogue. The result? A campaign that makes banking feel more relatable and engaging.
The creative collaboration between SCC and ONB extends well beyond traditional ads. SCC also developed the concept for ONB’s permanent billboard along Chicago’s Kennedy Expressway, which has gained attention for its witty, topical messages. A recent holiday season message read:
“How does Santa deliver presents on time? He avoids the Kennedy!”
The campaign will roll out in Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and Nashville, reinforcing ONB as a bank with both personality and cultural relevance.
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