Patrick Di Chiro founded THUNDER FACTORY in 2000 because of his fundamental belief that the marketing industry has for too long short-changed the client. Patrick envisioned a new kind of marketing firm, one comprised of highly experienced marketers and communicators who are passionate about helping clients succeed by building their businesses and growing their revenues. Thus was born THUNDER FACTORY, combining the strategic rigor of a world-class consulting firm, the creativity and branding expertise of an award-winning advertising/PR agency, the ROI focus of a top direct marketing firm and the technological know-how of a leading digital marketing company.

A 30-year veteran of international marketing and communications, Patrick's experience ranges from consumer/brand marketing and technology, to financial services and healthcare. Prior to launching THUNDER FACTORY, Patrick served as Chief Communications Officer of E*TRADE Financial, Inc., the pioneering online brokerage and banking firm. Formerly, he was VP of Global Technology Marketing for Visa International, and Partner, Ketchum Worldwide. During his seven-year career at Ketchum, Patrick served as Managing Director of Ketchum's Asia-Pacific agency network, and was the firm's first Director of Global Account Development.

In the mid-1980's, Patrick was Director of International Marketing and Communications for American Express Company in New York City. In that capacity he played key roles in launching numerous new American Express products worldwide, and in supporting the company's aggressive international M&A; activities. Patrick was also VP Marketing-Client Services of Armando TestaAdvertising, Italy's largest ad agency. He began his career as director of communications for a large Washington, D.C.-based trade association. A native of Naples, Italy, Patrick makes his home in the San Francisco Bay Area.

(A note from Patrick Di Chiro: In case you were wondering about the "clown" illustration to the right, it is actually Pulcinella, the famous Commedia Dell' Arte character and unofficial mascot of my hometown, Napoli. Not only does Pulcinella remind me of my beloved Napoli, but he also amuses me greatly. Pulcinella is known for his biting wit, his love of good food and wine, and his disdain for convention and authority. He was and is a true independent spirit, which pretty well describes me, too!)