Our DNA Starts Here.

They are each specialists in the services that drive client success. But more than that, they are leaders who understand how to own client goals. They spread that mindset across the entire organization and inspire a culture of big thinking and big doing.

“Almost everything in the marcom space has changed, but one hasn’t: success comes from staying dedicated and intensely focused on solving our clients’ challenges.”

Karen Burdette

Founder & Chairman

Entrepreneurial business savvy, strategic vision and leadership – this combination inspires our clients and staff alike. For 30 years Karen's been a game-changer, impacting national and international brands from our home base of Northeast Florida. Somehow she also finds time to volunteer, serve on non-profit boards, spend time with her family and enjoy the beach lifestyle.

Along the way

First Coast Business Hall of Fame inductee // Ultimate CEO // president of the River Club // University of North Florida Foundation board member // shaped major healthcare brands like Acuvue, iZon and CoolSculpting

“We have three sets of clients: our clients, our clients’ customers and the people inside this agency. Nothing great happens unless we hear and respond to each of them.”

Will Ketchum

President & CEO

Not only is he our talented general manager, Will is considered the "go-to-guy" for branding and marketing strategy. He puts his 28 years of experience toward helping companies discover and drive their brand DNAs. A trusted client counselor and brand psychologist in one, Will is always digging for fact-based truths. He's also very active in the North Florida community. Through his volunteerism and non-profit board service, he practically knows everyone. Just try going to lunch with him … he'll stop to greet at least three people on the way there or back.

Along the way

Jacksonville Business Journal Ultimate CEO // truJAX City Vision Chair // Leadership Jacksonville // Jax Chamber Board of Governors // BBDO Worldwide // Acuvue // Wachovia // BellSouth // MBA, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill // English major, Vanderbilt University

“We work in the realms of art and science, but at the core of it all remains the task of understanding and appealing to human behavior. Ultimately, creativity is the surest way to hearts and minds.”

Patrick Golden

Executive Creative Director

Every client has a compelling story, and Patrick will uncover it and bring it to life in a uniquely powerful way. He drives the creative strategy for all our client work with his talented team. Actually, he drives the creative for our surroundings too – our office design, décor and furnishings. One of the top creative minds in Florida, he is a founding member of the firm. He’s had several gallery showings of his original artwork; a few masterpieces are still available for purchase.

Along the way

60+ creative design awards // EFFIE Award // accomplished mixed-media artist // Jacksonville Business Journal 40 Under 40 // Flagler College

“Brands have never had so many ways to connect to customers than they do today. Our job is to make the breaking through feel not only resonant, but effortless, so our clients’ brands become the natural choice.”

Liza Kleven

Vice President, Client Services

"Everybody from Ohio is nice." That’s certainly true with Liza, a native Ohioan. Which is why she's a great fit with the rest of the nice folks at Burdette Ketchum. And, she's a smart, level-headed strategic marketer with 16+ years of agency experience. Her dedication to clients, passion for audience insights and expert team leadership guides clients and team members alike toward reaching their marketing goals.

Along the way

Resource/Ammirati: clients EXPRESS, Anthropologie, Bose and Nationwide Insurance // Ryan Partnership: clients Nestlé brands Lean Cuisine & Stouffer’s and JP Morgan Chase // Ohio University