Rafael Merino Gila is a seasoned creative professional with extensive experience in art direction and leadership roles across various renowned companies. Currently serving as a Jury Member for The FWA since June 2021, Rafael co-founded Mach in January 2018, where the role of Creative Director is held. Previous positions include Head of Art at VMLY&R from February 2022 to July 2023 and MRM//McCann from October 2016 to December 2021. Earlier career highlights feature co-founding South and Island, serving as Creative Art Director, and roles in art direction at companies such as Toch Studio, Double You, and GRUPO W. In addition to practical experience, Rafael has an academic background with a Master’s degree in Art Direction and Motion Graphics from Istituto Europeo di Design and is currently pursuing an MBA focused on business management at thePower.