2022 ThinkNW Marketing All-Star: Stephen Green, Founder of PitchBlack

We are pleased to announce the 2022 class of ThinkNW Marketing All-Stars, a peer-nominated award that recognizes excellence in marketing in the region. Our goal is to highlight the individuals who drive industry growth and contribute to the regional brand and marketing ecosystem.

We reached out to our honorees to learn more about their work, lives, and what the Pacific Northwest means to them.

Here’s what Stephen Green, Founder of PitchBlack, had to say:

How long have you been in your current role?

I have been in my current role for seven years.

What do you value most in your work in this role, and what do you consider your biggest accomplishment?

I deeply admire the resilience and success of Black founders who continue to build and create jobs despite the barriers and challenges they face. My biggest accomplishment has been the opportunity to reframe the notion of a “Black Founder” and shed light on Black businesses nationwide by speaking on stages across the country.

What do you like to do outside of your work?

I am fortunate to have an amazing family, an extensive sneaker collection that probably needs some organizing, a golf game that requires attention, and the privilege of serving on various boards that shape the future of Oregon.

What impact does the Pacific Northwest have on your work?

Living in the Northwest means being within a 30-minute radius of breathtaking trails, waterfalls, and scenic sites. People here prioritize leisure activities as much as work. It’s not uncommon for peers to encourage taking a break rather than urging you to get back to work.

How would you characterize the Pacific Northwest marketing/creative community? In your mind, what makes it unique?

In our community, we prioritize “community over competition,” and as my friend Rick Turoczy often says, we are “aggressively” humble. The journey of a founder often includes stories of competitors who have provided support along the way, and a commitment to paying it forward. We value our craft and growth without compromising our principles.