Thomas MARKERT

What was your very first job? What does it feel like to look back at it now? 

My very first Job was as a Production Assistant at MTV On Air Promos in New York 1991. Only in Retrospect am I able to appreciate how I was so very much at 'the right place at the right time'. Those days defenitely put me on my creative path.

Please describe, in your own words, what your current job is and what work it entails.

I am in charge of all visual design and branding matters for the Deutsche Fussball Liga which entails Bundesliga, 2. Bundesliga and all the DFL subsidiaries. From all the TV graphics, trailers and On-Air packaging to Venue Dressing of the stadiums to the Birthday Card, we work on all aspects of the Brand.

How did you discover that the creative world is right for you? Was there a time in your life that you credit to this discovery? Which train of events did bring you to where you are today?

Early on at my MTV days, those days were the most eye opening.  Although I must say I think my strength lies in having 'a good set of eyes' and that I always try to give Creatives a 'good home'.

In your constantly growing and expanding industry, how and where do you usually find inspiration to keep your work fresh, innovative and relevant?

I m always online on all the channels there are. But I also make an effort that my guys and myself are out and about to go to football games, art exhibits, festivals and wherever inspiration might come from. People like us can't sit still in offices and conference rooms.

If you had to pick one piece of work or project that you are most proud of, more for the creative work and innovation it required, rather than its recognition or industry “success,” what would it be? 

I was always lucky to have super talented guys work for me and just anything they presented was always a pleasure to look at ! I once interviewed Lee Scratch Perry in his basement studio next to the washing machines near Lake Zurich for Grand Royal Magazine... i m kinda proud of that !

Which creative disciplines do you commission most, and are most interested in seeing more of and why? (iephoto, film, social, experiential, vr, etc)

It s really a mixedbag, we commission it all ! Main focus is on our TV product for sure (Trailer, In Game graphics, Virtual Graphics, On Air Packaging etc.)