Judy John

Judy began her career as a copywriter, honing her craft at agencies ranging from small independent shops to large multinationals to running her own company. She joined Leo Burnett Toronto in 1999, as Chief Creative Officer, in 2011 added the CEO title for Canada, and in 2016 added the CCO title for North America.

Under her direction, Leo Burnett Toronto has been recognized nationally and globally, winning at virtually every show. Highlights include: the first-ever Digital Black Pencil at D&AD in 2006 and the most awarded billboard campaign in the world in 2009. In 2015, she won a second Black Pencil at D&AD, Titanium, Grand Prix and Glass Lion at Cannes, the Emmy for Outstanding Commercial and Always #LikeaAGirl was named by CBS as one of the top three Super Bowl Commercials of all time. The Gunn Report ranked Leo Burnett Toronto, the #1 Agency in Canada and #5 in the world in 2015.

In Advertising Age's Awards Report 2015, Judy ranked the #1 CCO in the world. Business Insider ranked Judy #8 in their 30 Most Creative People in Advertising. She was also named to Advertising Age's Creativity50 2014: The Most Creative People of the Year. Along the way, she’s judged top international awards shows including chairing juries at Cannes, The Clios and ADC and most recently on Cannes 2016 Titanium & Integrated jury. In 2016, she joined the Board of Directors of The One Club and The Women's College Hospital Foundation.

Everything from Judy’s work ethic to her management style, she learned from years of waiting tables and packing take-out orders at her parents' restaurant.