Dr. Marcus Collins

Professor | Best-Selling Author | Keynote Speaker | Culture Scholar | Chief Strategy Officer | Forbes Contributor , University of Michigan

Dr. Marcus Collins is a distinguished figure in the realm of cultural contagion, known for his profound insights into human behavior and the pervasive influence of culture. As a clinical professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, he intertwines his academic prowess with a rich background in marketing, honed during his tenure as the head of strategy at Wieden+Kennedy, New York.

Collins’ career is studded with accolades, including inductions into the American Advertising Federation’s Advertising Hall of Achievement and recognition as a Thinkers50 Radar Distinguished Achievement Awardee. His strategic acumen and creative flair have been celebrated through prestigious platforms such as Cannes Lion Creative Strategy and Ad Age’s 40 Under 40. Notable campaigns like “Cliff Paul” for State Farm, the Made In America Music Festival, and Google’s “Real Tone” technology underscore his innovative approach and transformative impact in advertising.

Prior to his illustrious advertising career, Collins traversed the realms of music and technology, co-founding a startup before assuming pivotal roles at Apple and Beyoncé’s digital strategy division. His multidisciplinary expertise culminated in the best-selling book, For The Culture, a seminal work elucidating the intricate interplay between culture and human behavior. Drawing from extensive literature, case studies, and personal experiences, Collins equips readers with actionable insights to navigate and leverage cultural dynamics effectively.

An alumnus of Temple University (DBA) and the University of Michigan (BSE in Materials Science Engineering, MBA), Collins continues to foster knowledge exchange as a Forbes CMO Network columnist and professor-in-residence. Beyond his professional endeavors, he cherishes his roles as a devoted husband to Alex and a nurturing father to Georgia and Ivy, epitomizing his commitment to both scholarly pursuits and personal fulfillment.