Billy Cole is a seasoned creative director and brand strategist with over 40 years of experience in retail fashion, home décor, and luxury industries. He has led award-winning campaigns, redefined brand identities, and driven customer engagement for major brands like Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta, White House Black Market, and HSN.
As the founder of Billy Cole Creative, he provides expert consulting in brand marketing, identity development, and photo art direction, blending storytelling with data-driven strategy to keep brands competitive.
Previously, Billy served as Senior Director of Creative Marketing at Old Navy, where he led a team that helped achieve the brand’s first $1 billion sales month. He also played a key role in launching WHBM Off The Rack, rebranding White House Black Market, and driving a 45% increase in digital sales. His leadership at HSN helped shift the company into a more digitally focused brand, resulting in a 21% annual sales boost.
With experience at Nordstrom, Macy’s East, and luxury brands like Ralph Lauren and Burberry, Billy has a deep understanding of branding, consumer behavior, and omni-channel marketing. His international work in London, Italy, and other global markets has further sharpened his strategic insight.
Billy is currently seeking board opportunities to lend his expertise in branding, marketing, and digital transformation. He is a member of the Retail Federation and an advisory board invitee for the Tampa Museum of Art. Outside of work, he enjoys fitness, long-distance cycling, food, and the arts.
Character: Billy Cole is a visionary leader known for his ability to inspire creative teams, push boundaries, and maintain a strong commitment to brand excellence.
Knowledge: With over 40 years of experience in retail fashion, branding, and marketing, Billy possesses deep expertise in content creation, digital strategy, and omni-channel campaigns.
Strategic: Billy combines instinct with data-driven strategy to transform brands, drive customer engagement, and achieve significant revenue growth across global markets.
Communication: An effective communicator and storyteller, Billy excels in presenting creative concepts, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and crafting compelling brand narratives that resonate with audiences.
