Jason Paddock is an award-winning marketing executive, keynote speaker, and creative leadership consultant with over 25 years of experience helping arts and nonprofit organizations thrive in times of change. With a career spanning prestigious institutions like George Street Playhouse, New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and State Theatre New Jersey, Jason has generated over $100 million in ticket sales, launched record-breaking campaigns, and led high-performing teams through reinvention, realignment, and resilience.

As the founder of Strategic Arts Marketing, Jason combines data-driven strategy with a deep understanding of the creative mind. He has coached executive leaders, reimagined customer journeys, and helped organizations transform their messaging, morale, and market presence.

A sought-after speaker, Jason delivers high-impact presentations and lunch-and-learn workshops on navigating uncertainty, managing anxiety in creative environments, and leading with psychological flexibility. His signature talks—Leading Creative Teams in an Age of Anxiety and Navigating Chaos—have inspired boardrooms, classrooms, and conference halls alike.

Jason holds a certificate in the Psychology of Leadership from Cornell University and degrees in communications, psychology, and arts management. He’s also the host of The Mental Canvas, a podcast exploring the intersection of mental health and creative work.

When he’s not on stage or behind a strategy deck, you’ll likely find him volunteering at a cat rescue, producing a festival, or sneaking in a game at Citi Field.