Industry Person of the Year: Ed Mitzen

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Ed Mitzen has successfully launched three different healthcare marketing companies totaling more than $300 million in combined revenue. His current company, Fingerpaint, is a full-service marketing agency with 135 employees, three locations and nearly $30 million in annual revenue. Breaking from the typical ad agency paradigm, Ed launched this employee-owned company with the mantra, “No titles, no offices, no egos.” The collaborative work culture has generated award-winning creative and explosive growth. In fact, Inc. magazine has ranked Fingerpaint on their List of America’s 5,000 Fastest Growing Companies for the last three years. (For more about Fingerpaint, see the profile on page 118.)

Before forming Fingerpaint, Ed founded two other healthcare marketing firms – Palio Communications and CHS. With this vast experience in healthcare advertising, it’s no surprise that he has been a key player in the marketing endeavors for more than 50 healthcare clients. Before venturing into the world of advertising agencies, Ed was the vice president of product management at Cardinal Health. He has also held positions in sales, market research and marketing management at several pharmaceutical companies, including Fisons and Sandoz.

Ed is a firm believer in giving back. He’s a frequent lecturer at several top colleges and universities and he serves on the board of directors of many not-for-profit organizations, including The Hyde Collection, Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce, and the Double H Ranch. He’s even created a branch of Fingerpaint dedicated exclusively to philanthropic efforts.

It’s hard not to notice Ed’s impact on the healthcare industry. He is living proof that nice guys can finish first.

“Ed has proven that you really can do it all. Build very successful companies and take care of the people and communities that help fuel your success. It is inspiring to work in such a unique environment.” — Bill McEllen

“Ed infuses his best qualities – creativity, loyalty, altruism – into everything he does. In addition to his passion and drive to succeed, it’s this authenticity that allows him to inspire others and be a major force in the healthcare industry and beyond.” — Andy Pyfer