Mark McGarrah

Mark McGarrah played a pivotal role in shaping Austin’s rise as a creative capital in advertising. In 1996, he co-founded McGarrah Jessee with Bryan Jessee, building the agency’s radically people-first culture and award-winning creative reputation. 

The agency’s impact, work and culture have been recognized by Advertising Age, Communication Arts, Fast Company, Forbes, and Outside Magazine. Proudly independent, McGarrah Jessee is known for cultivating fandom for national and international brands like YETI, Whataburger and Shiner Beers.  

In 2020, Mark was inducted into the American Advertising Federation’s Southwest Advertising Hall of Fame. 

As a strong believer in supporting his community, Mark has been involved in programs that help youth in low-income areas find a path towards a creative career. In 2012, he co-founded Job Propulsion Lab, a career development coaching service for creative talent. 

Mark lives in Austin with his wife Elise and they have two adult sons. He’s an advocate for families managing through serious mental health issues and also supports conservation efforts related to his passion for saltwater fly fishing.