Pat Ray
Executive Account Director, Creative Director
What got you into this business in the first place?
My Dad, eager for a doctor in the family, suggested trauma, I opted for drama, and
ended up getting a job as a junior copywriter at an ad agency after college.
Who was a big influence in your career?
My first creative director at Y&R, Ron Howes.
What was "your finest moment," the thing you're most proud of?
When my campaign for The Partnership for a Drug free America became part of an
international design exhibit.
What was your most embarrassing moment in this business?
A scheduling glitch forced me to step in and make a critical presentation while my jaw
was wired shut. Fortunately, I let my hands do the talking.
Is there a great client story you'd care to share?
I went to an award show with a client who was so over the moon with her win that
she took over the podium and had to be played off 3 times before she finally finished
her acceptance speech.
What attracted you to Parham Santana?
A fan of ours was also a fan of theirs and introduced us. It was love at first sight.
Do you have a method for coming up with ideas and solutions for clients?
I could tell you but I'd have to kill you.
What makes a great brand?
A smart idea. A great name. And a perfect niche.
What driving career goals do you still have?
Creating a philanthropic organization that changes lives for the better.
What talent do you wish you had?
Speedreading.
If you had to live on a desert island, what would you miss most?
Perfume and pearls.
Is there any food that helps you think more creatively?
The little candy rolls called Smarties.
What's your favorite sports team?
Can you count shopping as a sport?
What frustrates you the most?
"good enough."
What's your point of view about politics?
It makes for a lively dinner party.
Tell us about your pets?
Imagine a 110 lb lap dog. Ok, now imagine two of them.
Meet George and our newest addition, (slightly younger and
lighter in weight), Phelps aka Hoover, who's determined to suck
up every crumb in sight.
What was growing up like for you?
Barefoot summer days, frosty cold winters and tons
of cousins to spend them with.
What's your favorite TV program? And your least favorite?
This season's favorites. Glee (throw back to my boarding
school days), Medium (proof you can solve anything in your sleep)
and Rachel Maddow.
What do you do for a good time when you're not working?
Entertain friends.
What was college like for you?
Long nights and piles of papers to read. A lot like it is today.
What are your favorite Internet sites?
Too many to name. This month, Gilt Groupe.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Finishing everyone's sentences.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Fresh peonies in the dead of winter.
What is your most treasured possession?
Our dogs.
What is your motto?
You've just got to laugh.
What is your current state of mind?
Blessed.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Patience.
What is your most marked characteristic?
I'd say my giggle, followed closely by my tendency
to talk with my hands.
