The General Store continues hiring spree as Kåre Martens joins as design director

Creative agency The General Store has welcomed on board new design director Kåre Martens, former creative strategy director at Collider.

Says Marcus Tesoriero, chief creative officer at The General Store: “Kåre has a killer creative track record and done brilliant work for the likes of the Sydney Opera House and Commonwealth Bank – but his obsession with craft is what really impressed me.

“I love his blend of design from the digital to physical world. His work pushes beyond beautiful brand ID into a world of stunning, interactive installations. The guy is a true artist and we’re pumped to have him on the team.”

Martens’ appointment follows The General Store’s two other recent hires art director Dan Li and copywriter Mitch Taylor.

During his career, Martens has been creative director at local and international agencies including Deepend and Collider in Sydney and Handverk in Oslo, and consulted for agencies such as Interbrand, R/GA and Clemenger BBDO. Among the clients Martens has worked with are the Sydney Theatre Company, the Museum of Contemporary Art and NSW Government’s Western Sydney Aerotropolis.

Martens’ work has also been recognised at prestigious local and international awards including Cannes and D&AD.

Says Martens: “I joined The G Store because I’m excited about their all-round approach to design. They think of a brand’s journey starting from the strategy and development of its visual identity to the physical space it will operate in and finally, the advertising campaigns & use of technology.

“I’m looking forward to using my experience to float between these disciplines and to learn from the true experts in these fields.”

The General Store is an award-winning multidisciplinary creative agency and works with major brands like Rebel, Barbeques Galore, Freedom, Breville and Primo.