Chris Mendola

In 1988 Chris joined Chiat/Day, responsible for managing the global Reebok account. In 1992 he joined Wieden+Kennedy in Portland to lead the management of the Nike account, developing the brand's “Just Do It” voice. In 1997 Chris moved to Amsterdam to run W+K Europe, creating the most awarded advertising in the world.

Chris left W+K to found the international agency 180, based out of Amsterdam with the global Adidas account as the founding client. He expanded 180 by creating the global digital agency RIOT, and then opened 180's Los Angeles office. Chris was 180's CEO and Chairman spanning 18 years, leading 180’s growth to over $60 million in client revenue. While CEO of 180, Chris was named the Advertising Marketer of The Year in Europe, and 180 was recognized as one of the top global creative agencies. 180 received the most coveted award in advertising; The Grand Prix at Cannes.

Under Chris’ leadership, 180 elevated dozens of global brands, driving growth for a robust client roster including adidas, Asics, Sony, Pepsi, BMW, Expedia, Heineken, DHL, University of Phoenix, HP, UNICEF, Qatar Airlines, MTV, Amnesty International, The Academy Awards, and many others.

The agency was sold to Omnicom in 2007.

In 2016, Tom Carroll and Chris founded Brand Equity Partners. BEP invests in carefully selected start-up companies, and help those companies to create their brand value, generating market advantage and financial value.