• Marketing Director • Creative Strategy Lead • Writer • Photographer • Graphic Design

TRANSFORMING BRAND PARTNERSHIPS:

LEVERAGING FANDOM &

UGC CONTENT TO

PROPEL BRAND REACH

Strategic Brand Growth & Innovation

As the Director of Brand Marketing, I led a key strategic marketing partnership between Loot Crate and Hasbro, specifically timed to coincide with the release of Transformers: The Last Knight. My role involved coordinating closely with a multifaceted team that included licensing managers, product designers, and social media specialists to develop a campaign that leveraged user-generated content to deepen fan engagement, inviting fans to participate in a unique UGC photo contest.

  • We encouraged them to creatively use the Loot Crate box itself, which featured a print of Optimus Prime on the inside, transforming it into a personalized fan art piece. Participants were asked to submit their photos using the hashtag #CrateCraft, thereby integrating their personal experiences with the brand into our broader marketing strategy.

    Additionally, we enhanced the campaign’s visibility and appeal by featuring exclusive interviews with Marcelo Matere, the renowned artist known for his work with the Transformers series. These interviews were shared across Loot Crate and Transformers fan sites, further engaging the community and driving interaction.

    The #CrateCraft UGC contest not only helped in promoting the Transformers products but also served as a critical element in expanding our reach and strengthening community ties through active and direct participation. This strategy not only honored the legacy of the Transformers franchise but also showcased the innovative and interactive capabilities of Loot Crate’s marketing initiatives.

  • The campaign significantly enhanced our brand's visibility and engagement across multiple platforms. By integrating user-generated content with initiatives like the #CrateCraft contest and Transformers trivia, we achieved substantial interactions that boosted fan involvement and attracted new followers. This strategy not only expanded our digital presence but also cultivated a more vibrant and engaged community.

    Our partnership with Hasbro played a crucial role in amplifying user engagement, evidenced by active participation in the #CrateCraft contest and a surge in social media activity. This approach strengthened our fan base and enhanced our overall social media metrics. The campaign gained considerable visibility, especially on Transformers fan sites and social media platforms, captivating fans with content from artist Marcelo Matere and a variety of interactive contests.

  • Campaign Strategy, Social Media Strategy, Creative Ideation

Let’s Connect.

Feel free to email me or let’s connect
on social media to plan a discussion about your next project.

steven.knezevich[at]gmail[dot]com
‪(424) 265-7841

Los Angeles, CA