Will Oechsler

Chief of Strategy & Messaging

Will’s professional career began at Leo Burnett USA, at the time the country’s foremost advertising agency. There he managed research and planning efforts for many of the world’s top brands including McDonald’s, Sony, Philip Morris (Marlboro), Reebok, P&G, (Crest, Luvs, White Cloud, Pepto-Bismol), and Walt Disney World. His national recognition for strategic marketing communications includes two Effies, an Obie, Gabriel, Silver Anvil, New York Festival World Medal, two Pollies, two Print Magazine Awards, a Web Award, Webby Worthy Award, Marketing Sherpa Silver Mouse, four Audies (including audiobook of the year), and more than a dozen Telly Awards.

Will Oechsler most recently served as chief marketing officer for Furniture Row Companies, one of America’s fastest growing furniture retailers. The Denver-based, privately held company operates more than 330 stores in 31 states and is the largest cash buyer of furniture as well as largest factory-direct mattress retailer in the United States. While in his role, Will also championed many of the company’s philanthropic efforts for nonprofits including World Vision, Association of Gospel Rescue Missions, St. Jude Dream Home, Salvation Army, Arbor Day Foundation, and the Tim Tebow Foundation. 

Will served as executive vice president of marketing at Zondervan, an international leader in Christian communications. West Michigan-based Zondervan is a HarperCollins company owned by NewsCorp. He oversaw all marketing initiatives spanning the Bible, book, academic, children’s, and new media groups. Will was also responsible for branding, corporate communications, digital marketing, market research, and creative services.

Will has served on multiple corporate and nonprofit boards including AimWest, ArtPrize, Catholic Human Development Outreach, Compass College of Cinematic Arts, Ferris State Universityʼs Advertising/Business Program, Front Range Christian School, Global Publishers Alliance, Grotenhuis, Life International, Orphan Justice Mission, and Rich Learning International.