“Creativity with Purpose, Strategy with Impact.”
Rick Holberg is a seasoned executive who has spent more than 37 years delivering exceptional marketing, communications, and strategic branding solutions across diverse industries, including art, higher education, manufacturing, nonprofit, healthcare, finance, and beyond. With a career characterized by innovative thinking and visionary leadership, Rick blends his profound expertise in graphic design and strategic communication with his passion for building meaningful brands that resonate deeply with audiences and drive tangible business outcomes.
Currently serving as Vice President of Creative at GAVIN, a thriving hybrid creative communications agency in York, PA, Rick leads a talented team of professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of marketing communications innovation. His responsibilities span overseeing creative direction, branding, new business development, product development, and ensuring consistent execution of impactful client communication strategies. Rick’s dedication has elevated GAVIN’s brand, placing it among the region’s most respected boutique marketing firms.
As an experienced academic leader and educator, Rick holds critical teaching positions in the Masters program at the University of Florida and Southern New Hampshire University, where he serves as Academic Partner, Adjunct Instructor, and Team Lead. He oversees and mentors a large group of online instructors, significantly contributing to the growth and continuous improvement of graduate-level communications programs. Rick’s innovative approach to course development has significantly enhanced the student experience, particularly through the creation of instructional video series that have become central to graduate curricula.
Rick’s commitment to higher education is also evident in his advisory role at Seton Hall University and his previous teaching roles at York College of Pennsylvania and The Art Institute of York. His courses have covered critical areas of communications, such as PR campaign development, strategic communications, graphic design, and new media. He consistently emphasizes practical application, preparing students for real-world success.
His entrepreneurial spirit was demonstrated through his leadership at Holberg Design, a successful branding and advertising firm he helmed for over three decades. Under Rick’s guidance, Holberg Design delivered impactful creative solutions for prestigious clients such as WellSpan, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Lifetime Brands, and Harsco Corporation. His strategic approach to branding, coupled with his ability to communicate visually, contributed significantly to his clients’ sustained success.
Rick’s community involvement further illustrates his character and values. He has served notably as Past President of the Board of Directors for Community Connections For Children, and as a long-time board member of Byrnes Health Education Center. His community leadership roles demonstrate Rick’s commitment to fostering environments where education, health, and community well-being thrive.
Beyond professional endeavors, Rick is an avid photographer, underwater scuba diver, and reader. His creative interests feed into his professional capabilities, enriching his creative perspectives and enhancing his strategic insights. These personal passions underscore his multifaceted approach to life and work.
Rick’s extensive professional speaking engagements include presenting on branding, social media strategies, and marketing innovations at regional and national industry events. He is also a recognized contributor to various industry publications, blogs, and articles, further solidifying his reputation as an expert in strategic branding and communication.
His experience managing Holberg Design for over three decades underscores his exceptional skills in leadership, creative direction, and comprehensive business management. Rick demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial capabilities, leading every aspect from design innovation and project management to strategic forecasting, human resources, and business development.
Rick’s ability to leverage traditional media alongside emerging digital platforms places him at the cutting edge of marketing innovation. Whether spearheading major rebranding initiatives or guiding graduate students through complex communication capstone projects, his approach is always strategically sound, creatively driven, and results oriented.
Today, Rick seeks board opportunities to leverage his vast experience and enthusiasm to empower growth, enrich organizational strategies, and foster environments that prioritize innovation, excellence, and meaningful communication.
Character:
Rick Holberg is deeply committed to personal and professional integrity, consistently demonstrated by his long-standing volunteer leadership roles. His passion for mentoring, teaching, and community engagement highlights his genuine desire to empower others.
Knowledge:
With over 37 years of diversified experience in marketing, communication, and branding, Rick possesses an unparalleled depth of industry knowledge. His multifaceted expertise ensures strategic alignment across various business contexts.
Strategic:
Rick demonstrates exceptional strategic thinking through his ability to create actionable marketing plans and brand positioning strategies. His visionary leadership consistently translates creative concepts into measurable success.
Communication:
Rick excels in articulating complex ideas clearly, effectively engaging diverse audiences through visual storytelling and strategic messaging. His ability to communicate complex strategies clearly makes him invaluable in collaborative environments.
