D&AD has appointed Kwame Taylor-Hayford, co-founder of Kin, as its president for 2024-25.
He will become the non-profit’s first US-based president and succeeds Jack Renwick, founder and creative director at Jack Renwick Studio.
Taylor-Hayford has been a member of the D&AD Impact Council since 2017 and joined the organisation’s board as a trustee in 2021.
He is also the resident executive creative director for D&AD’s Shift NYC, a programme aiming to connect diverse and emerging creative talent with agencies and brands.
As president, Taylor-Hayford will focus on mentoring and advancing future creative leaders, as well as highlight the value of purpose-driven work for brands.
After beginning his advertising career at what was then Y&R/VML in 2005, Taylor-Hayford has also worked at TBWA/Media Arts Lab, Saatchi & Saatchi and Anomaly on the agency side. Prior to co-founding Kin, he led the in-house creative team at food and beverage brand Chobani. He is also a co-founder of Saturday Morning, a non-profit organisation that tackles racial bias and injustice using creativity.
Taylor-Hayford said: “Throughout my career, D&AD has exemplified the best creative ideas and craft from talented people around the world. That global perspective, representing different countries and cultures has been a constant inspiration, fueling my curiosity, motivating me to explore, learn and grow. This was especially true during the formative years of my journey, when I was finding my voice and forging a path in the industry. I’m truly honoured, very excited and deeply motivated to take on the presidency this year.
“For all the creatives around the world, regardless of background, training or circumstance, who are figuring out how to navigate their career, D&AD is here for you. Our archive, learning programmes, masterclasses, and, most importantly, generous community of established and emerging talent are here to help you realise your creative ambitions.”
Dara Lynch, D&AD chief executive, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Kwame as our new president, taking the baton from the incredible Jack Renwick. Like Jack, Kwame’s dedication to driving forward D&AD’s representation of creative excellence has been unwavering. From his impactful contributions to our board of trustees, to his hands-on mentorship in programmes like Shift and New Blood, he embodies the spirit of our organisation. Kwame champions diverse talent and ignites social change through creativity, reflecting D&AD's core values at their heart.
“I’d also like to give a big shout out and thank you to Jack for serving as D&AD president for the 2023-24 term. Her passion and commitment to our design industry and unwavering support for emerging talent has left an indelible mark on D&AD.”
