FOR DESIGN LEADERS
As a strategic designer and creative director, I can ___ your studio___
Bring me on as an independent and two things happen
1. You get senior-level work without a full-time hire
I help your climate projects get off the ground and I make your existing client work more sustainable. I bring all of my skills as a strategic designer and creative director to every project.
I take on a role and lead your team on the project. When I'm not needed, I simply hand the client to you and step back.
I’ve contracted with design studios to support their client’s sustainability projects.
2. You get access to my networks
I’ve built out Climate Designers, collaborated with other independents, and am part of various design and climate groups.
I know talented people doing great in both design and climate.
I’ve also advised design studio leaders to become better climate partners for their clients.
Areas of Focus
BRAND & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Crafting cohesive identity systems and user experiences that make sustainable choices feel obvious and desirable
COMMUNITY BUILDING & EDUCATION
Creating global networks of climate-focused creatives and developing curriculum that prepares the next generation of climate designers
CLIMATE DESIGN STRATEGY
Helping climate orgs translate complex climate solutions into compelling narratives that drive adoption, secure funding, and scale impact
CREATIVE FACILITATION
Leading design sprints and workshops that generate breakthrough ideas using methodologies like "Thinking Wrong" and systems thinking
CLIMATE COMMUNICATION & STORYTELLING
Shifting cultural narratives from climate anxiety to climate possibility through visual storytelling and Solarpunk visions
Skills & Talents
Design & Visual
Design Systems
Brand Systems
Brand Development
Interaction Design
Experience Design
Website Design
Graphic Design
Wireframing
Prototyping
Strategy & Planning
Campaign Development
Messaging Strategy
Content Strategy
Strategic Thinking
User Research
User Testing
Business Model Design
Landscape Analysis
Social Media Marketing
Experiential Design
Event Production
Process & Methodology
Thinking Wrong
Prototyping Thinking
Systems Thinking
Design Thinking
Creative Facilitation
Human Centered Design
Life Centered Design
My Journey
In 2016, I had to figure out how to break into the climate space as a design studio founder. We had no roadmap, no guidebook.
Since then, I’ve been bridging the gap between design, climate, and business.
+ Co-founded and ran a successful climate design studio for 7 years
+ Built Climate Designers, a global community of 5,000+ members across 5 continents
+ Helped climate tech startups secure over $30M in funding
+ Worked across industries such as regenerative agriculture, carbon removal, ocean health, circular manufacturing, conservation, and environmental law
+ Co-produced over 100 projects addressing LA County's sustainability plan
+ Created climate design courses for California College of the Arts and Terra.do
+ Presented numerous talks and interviews covering design and climate action
+ Worked across regenerative agriculture, carbon removal, ocean health, circular manufacturing, conservation, and environmental law
+ Write about design, climate, and business on my blog
Kind Words From Design Founders
“Marc O’Brien has been instrumental in helping Serotonin Creative Consultancy amplify its focus on climate-forward initiatives. From the very beginning of our collaboration, Marc’s vision and expertise have guided us in taking our work from simply supporting purpose-driven clients to becoming a trusted creative partner for organizations at the forefront of climate innovation.
With his deep knowledge of the climate space and a knack for strategy, Marc has pushed Serotonin to align our creative efforts more meaningfully with the needs of our climate-focused clients. His ability to connect us to his extensive network, share invaluable resources, and introduce frameworks tailored to the climate economy has elevated the quality and impact of our work.
Marc’s collaborative spirit and dedication to addressing the climate crisis have not only expanded Serotonin’s capabilities but also solidified our commitment to supporting organizations driving real environmental change. Working with Marc has been a game-changer, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from and partner with someone so passionate and purpose-driven.”
Casey Hogue
Founder & Executive Director,
Serotonin Creative
Brandt Williams
Co-Founder, Thinknado
“Working with Marc has been transformative in addressing climate change communication challenges. His unique ability to facilitate difficult conversations with a demeanor that is both disarming and progressive has proven invaluable.
What sets Marc apart is not just his design expertise, but his thoughtful approach to facilitation strategy and collaboration. When you need someone to help stakeholders move past inertia and take meaningful action on climate initiatives, Marc's combination of strategic thinking and collaborative spirit makes him the ideal partner.”