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GET TO KNOW MDG
Merrilee D. Gilson

Transforming my lifelong passions for music, art, and design into a fulfilling career has been a remarkable journey of collaboration, creativity, and innovation. As a creative leader, I’ve had the privilege of spearheading impactful advertising campaigns and guiding teams to deliver meaningful brand experiences that resonate with both consumers and clients.

During my tenure at Optum and UnitedHealth Group, I established and led their national in-house creative marketing team, overseeing 15 talented professionals—including designers, copywriters, social media and content strategists, and program managers. Together, we executed multi-million-dollar national campaigns and developed marketing strategies and collateral for both national initiatives and nine regional markets. My leadership focused on building a high-performing, collaborative team culture, nurturing creativity, and consistently delivering work that enhanced brand visibility, drove measurable business outcomes, and exceeded expectations.

My expertise spans a broad spectrum of creative disciplines, including multimedia design (web development, UX/UI, e-commerce, video production, animation, logo design, print and digital advertising, signage, and packaging), copywriting, brand strategy, marketing strategy, and content creation. I approach each project holistically, crafting cohesive strategies that connect brands with their audiences in memorable and impactful ways.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I channel my creativity into music and content creation. Operating a professional recording studio from my home, I produce original music and video projects while supporting a vibrant community of musicians and creators with expert audio and visual guidance. My personal and professional pursuits are driven by a passion for innovation, collaboration, and creating work that inspires and connects.

PASSIONATE ABOUT CREATIVE THAT WORKS

WITH A meticulous APPROACH, MDG'S CREATIVE WORK IS KNOWN FOR ITS clarity, impact, AND ABILITY TO capture attention. MDG TRANSLATES CONCEPTS INTO COMPELLING CONTENT THAT MAKES A difference.

EXPERIENCE

Virginia House Studios
Owner and Operator

Jan 2020 – Present

MDG Design
Founder and Creative Director

Jan 1997 – Present

Optum
Creative Marketing Director, National Marketing

Feb 2021 – Sep 2023

Optum
Brand Manager, National Marketing

Feb 2020 – Feb 2021

Optum
Lead Creative, National Marketing

Jan 2012 – Feb 2020

Memorial Healthcare IPA
Brand and Graphic Design Specialist

Jan 2005 – Jan 2012

Memorial Healthcare IPA
Managing Director of Willow Wellness Center

Jan 2005 – Jan 2012

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