Ed Collins

Ed Collins is an advertising executive, entrepreneur and educator with nearly four decades of experience helping global brands build meaningful connections with consumers through strategy, creativity, media and emerging technology. Throughout his career, he has led integrated marketing initiatives across a wide range of industries, including automotive, consumer products, food and beverage, healthcare, technology, entertainment, finance, sports, education, energy, transportation and real estate.

Before entering academia, Collins held executive leadership positions at several of the world's most respected advertising agencies, including Young & Rubicam, TBWA\Chiat\Day, Foote, Cone & Belding (FCB) and DDB. His work has encompassed brand strategy, account leadership, media planning, business development, and integrated marketing communications for regional, national and global clients.

Today, Collins is the co-founder and CEO of Firebay Studios, an AI-powered creative production company focused on transforming how brands develop television, video, audio and digital advertising content. His work centers on combining artificial intelligence with human creativity to produce scalable, high-quality marketing solutions while helping organizations navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of generative AI.

Since joining the Dodge College faculty in 2014, Collins has taught senior-level advertising courses that bridge classroom theory with real-world agency practice. Drawing on decades of executive experience, he provides students with practical insights into commercial production, client management, creative strategy and the changing role of technology in advertising. His teaching emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, professionalism, and preparing students to succeed in an increasingly dynamic communications industry.

Collins is passionate about mentoring the next generation of advertising professionals and helping students understand not only how great campaigns are created, but how emerging technologies are reshaping the future of the industry.