GCM is a family-founded global communications agency that believes in the power of human connection and business as a force for good.
We are slightly obsessed with artificial intelligence and are constantly looking for ways to do better and more. We use our hands when we eat pizza and prefer nice stemware when we drink wine, although a coffee mug would do in a dire situation. We make jokes when we are nervous or having fun, but are serious about good work and real impact.
We value relationships over transactions and believe that we achieve the best outcomes when good people work well together. That's why we actively seek partnerships with like-minded businesses and organizations, ranging from individuals and small enterprises to the world's largest and most influential organizations. Together, we forge genuine connections that bring lasting value.
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GCM’s work is led by this core team of experts with decades of experience in communications, marketing, creative direction, and design. As necessary, we bring in a vast network of trusted, experienced partners, and resources to execute almost any communications and marketing project.
A curated playlist that allows you to dive into the sonic landscapes that inspire us. We regularly update this collection to reflect our individual styles and moods, ensuring there's always something new and exciting for you to discover.
Zach is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with over a decade of experience. He blends his profound expertise with cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence technology to assist organizations in scaling their marketing strategies and campaigns.
Renowned for his insights into the fascinating convergence of AI and marketing, Zach is a frequent guest speaker at industry conferences. Additionally, he conducts intensive 'AI in Marketing' workshops, tailored to equip organizations with the requisite knowledge and skills to effectively harness AI, fueling their marketing abilities and driving revenue growth.
Zach's consulting acumen spans a diverse array of organizations, from Fortune 500 companies to dynamic startups. His wide array of services includes designing and executing comprehensive communication strategies, creating award-winning corporate news sites, and aiding clients in scaling both their internal and external communication capabilities.
In his professional journey that has taken him from Washington D.C. to Johannesburg, Zach founded GCM, a boutique communications firm. He is deeply committed to empowering organizations to establish strong identities and devise robust marketing strategies, propelled by his passion for personalized training and service delivery.
Zach's love for sports and politics has refined his skills in strategic planning and team management, making him a natural problem solver. He values his client relationships deeply, striving to serve as an invaluable extension of their teams.
Beyond his professional commitments, Zach contributes actively to his local community, serving on the boards of two nonprofits. He indulges his personal passions in travel, wine, and conversation, underpinned by a lifelong love for storytelling, history, and culture. Zach resides in the Charleston, S.C. area with his wife and two young sons, his enthusiasm for life radiating through both his professional and personal pursuits.
With over a decade of diverse experience in communications, marketing, and sustainability, Emma Giglio has built an expansive career that crosses three continents and multiple industries. A South African native, Emma's journey has been enriched by her passion for travel and her fascination with new cultures and people. This global mindset deeply informs her approach to her work and life.
Emma met her husband, Zach, in China in 2010, and their shared passion for communication and connection laid the foundation for a strong personal and professional partnership. Emma first established her own communications consultancy in 2016, then joined forces with Zach in 2020 to formalize their company as Giglio Communications & Marketing (GCM). Here, she blends her social media and marketing expertise with Zach's corporate communications and PR prowess, and together, they integrate cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence technology to elevate their strategies. Emma's keen interest and growing expertise in AI applications in marketing and communications enable GCM to offer innovative, data-driven solutions to their clients, ensuring their strategies are not only creative but also smart and efficient.
Operating out of Charleston, South Carolina, GCM is a testament to Emma's belief in the power of human connection as a force for good. Her unique consulting approach, acting as an extension of her clients' teams, enables her to gain an in-depth understanding of their aspirations, business objectives, challenges, and market identities. This intimate connection, combined with her and Zach's innovative use of AI, empowers Emma to craft and implement communications and marketing campaigns that effectively resonate with her clients' target audiences.
Before GCM, Emma served as a Senior Consultant at Cape Classics. There, she laid the groundwork for the flagship sustainability program for the largest importer of South African wine in America. Her contributions were instrumental in aligning the company's sustainability initiatives with their commercial goals, setting the stage for the organization's future successes in this area.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Emma is a devoted mom to two little boys. Balancing her dynamic career with motherhood, Emma brings the same level of passion, commitment, and energy to her family life as she does to her work.
Emma earned a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and Mandarin from Stellenbosch University in South Africa. She currently serves on the board of a local nonprofit organization and teaches spin class each week.
Hailing from South Africa, Gustav Steenkamp is a gifted creative director and graphic designer who has built a remarkable career spanning over a decade, cutting across various industries including public relations, advertising, fashion, and marketing. Gustav possesses an unparalleled mix of creativity, technical expertise, and a sharp eye for detail.
Gustav joined GCM as Creative Director in 2021, bringing his rich experience from running a successful freelance design studio for eight years. His extensive network of trusted global clients stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, people-centric approach, and commitment to brand development and creative expression.
At the heart of Gustav's work ethic and career progression is his passion for people and brands. His design philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that design is a form of visual storytelling that has the power to foster connections, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impact. This philosophy has driven him to consistently deliver innovative design solutions that not only meet client expectations but also inspire and captivate audiences.
Previously, Gustav served as a designer at the South African branch of the world's largest public relations agency and honed his skills in digital and social media content creation for some of the biggest brands on earth. He played an instrumental role in two major newsrooms, Barclays and Eskom, collaborating with PR specialist teams to generate riveting graphics that amplified their content.
With a proven track record of success, Gustav is well-positioned to continue making significant waves in the design world. His unique blend of technical skill, creative vision, and a warm, human-centered approach sets him apart in the field, promising a future filled with more innovation and inspiring designs.
Gustav holds a Bachelor's Degree in Visual Communication with a specialization in Communication Design and Illustration from Open Window School of Visual Communication. He currently lives in Cape Town, South Africa.
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