We are an agency of people who believe in what we do. This is not just another job for us. We know that marketing and advertising play an important role in the success of any organization. We know that if we do our job well, it can make a tangible difference for our clients. That sounds like very serious stuff. And it is. But we also believe that the best work comes from people who have fun doing their work, who enjoy their co-workers, and who look forward to collaborating with clients. It takes a special group of individuals to create advertising that works. And lucky for us, we have that group.
Meet the Executive Team who leads the Freestyle Marketing crew.
Erni Hernandez Armstrong
PRINCIPAL/FOUNDER
From writing copy to serving as Chief Financial Officer, Erni has navigated the diverse landscape of the advertising industry. After more than 17 years in the business, she finally struck out on her own, fulfilling a lifelong dream of successfully running her own business. She built her perfect vision when Freestyle Marketing Group opened its doors in 2000. Today, in her role as President and CEO, she manages the executive team and leads the agency’s Account Planning efforts.
Her agency experience began with Williams & Rockwood, a full-service advertising agency. After serving as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for several years, she discovered the magic of the Internet. She was so convinced of the brand-building potential of this new medium that, in 1996, she persuaded the agency principals to let her head the Interactive Division, while continuing to serve as CFO. The new division soon began providing services for some of the agency’s largest clients.
Her background also includes several years in senior marketing positions with high tech companies, including stints as Vice President of Marketing for Axiom Technologies and Director of National Sales and Marketing for Park City Group.
Erni holds a Business degree from Utah State University. She served on the Board of Trustees of the Economic Development Corporation of Utah. She is also the past Chairman of the Board of Prevent Child Abuse Utah and the current Chairman of the Board of Philippines Humanitarian. In 2013 she was recognized by the Asian Chamber of Commerce as an Outstanding Business Owner and in 2015 was honored by Utah Business Magazine as one of 30 Women to Watch.
Jason Harrison
PRINCIPAL/CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Jason is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in information design and a proven track record of spearheading award-winning advertising campaigns. With a history of working as a design and creative lead for successful agencies such as Williams and Rockwood, Dahlin Smith White, and Euro RCSG, Jason brings a depth of insight and expertise to every project he undertakes.
As the visionary architect behind Freestyle’s portfolio of notable work, Jason offers strategic leadership and high-level conceptualization to our creative team. His grasp of business dynamics, marketing trends, and branding principles serves as the foundation for shaping our overarching creative strategies that empower our clients’ marketing efforts with impactful messaging that consistently delivers.
Jason’s expertise lies in his experience collaborating with a diverse group of clients, including industry leaders such as Intel, Red Lobster, Zions Bank, Knight-Swift Transportation, and University of Utah Health, among others. This versatile background has honed his ability to strike the delicate balance between fostering innovation and meeting client objectives seamlessly.
Jason holds a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from Brigham Young University. He was born and raised in Colorado, but Utah has been home for the majority of his adult life.
Shawna Gunther
ACCOUNT DIRECTOR
Shawna is an accomplished and results-oriented executive with over 14 years of experience in the advertising industry. As Account Director at Freestyle Marketing, she plays a pivotal role in driving the agency’s growth and fostering strong long-term client partnerships.
Shawna adeptly manages her role as the intermediary among the Account Team, the Creative Team, and the Client, demonstrating both grace and a positive attitude. She inspires our Account Team to develop and execute comprehensive marketing strategies tailored to each of our client’s unique objectives. She collaborates with our dynamic group of Creatives, sharing her deep understanding of consumer behavior with strategic insights to create compelling campaigns that resonate with target audiences and drive measurable results.
Originally from southern California, Shawna has proudly called Utah home since 2006. Her academic journey led her to the University of Utah, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications, specializing in Public Relations.
Shawna’s journey is marked by a series of successes, where she has consistently exceeded expectations and earned the trust of clients through her commitment to excellence and integrity. Prior to her current role, she held various leadership positions within the agency, honing her expertise in client management, account planning, and business development.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Shawna’s passion for sports is ingrained in her lifestyle. She shares this enthusiasm with her husband, a former captain of the University of Utah football team, and their two active children, who actively engage in various athletic pursuits.