Management Team

JAMES McFARLIN

CEO & Creative Director
James McFarlin brings a wealth of expertise in design and marketing. He has a proven track record of producing award-winning campaigns and innovative solutions across diverse industries.

James has developed impactful advertising campaigns, cutting-edge cross-platform web applications, and digital tools to enhance franchise and local store marketing efforts throughout his career. His portfolio includes designing and directing successful product launches for iconic brands such as Johnny Rockets, SKECHERS, WallyPark Airport Parking, and FairwayPro.

James also played a pivotal role in rebranding over 10,000 Texaco retail locations to the Shell brand, developing B2B, B2C, and PR tools to ensure seamless execution.

His agency served as the primary marketing communications firm for Shell and Texaco U.S., a testament to his strategic vision and leadership.

In addition to Shell and Texaco, James has worked with globally recognized clients such as Mattel, Guess Jeans, and Body Glove, consistently delivering creative strategies that elevate brands and drive results. Before founding his agency, James served as Communications Director at American Medical International (AMI), overseeing communications for 268 hospitals and a workforce of over 50,000 employees.

James holds a B.A. and a master’s in Communications and Visual Studies from the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC), where he cultivated his passion for storytelling and visual design. His work reflects a commitment to excellence, innovation, and meaningful brand transformation.

MARGARET McFARLIN

Financial Analysis & Business Management

Margaret McFarlin is a seasoned financial analysis, business management, and strategic development professional. As Business Development Manager for Texaco Refining & Marketing Inc., she facilitated the largest retail rebranding initiative in U.S. business history. She led the transition team while merging Texaco and Shell’s downstream assets. Margaret also developed proprietary tools for financial analysis, sales forecasting, and capital investment, earning recognition as a forward-thinking strategist in the energy sector.

An entrepreneur at heart, Margaret later founded a recreational products company, where she authored four patents and successfully directed manufacturing and e-commerce operations. Her ability to combine innovation with operational efficiency underscores her strength in turning ideas into thriving businesses.

At FairwayPro, Margaret brought her wealth of financial planning and business management expertise to guide operations and drive the company’s growth. Her analytical rigor complemented the creative vision of her partner, James McFarlin, making her an integral force behind the development and success of FairwayPro’s groundbreaking divot simulator technology.

Margaret earned her M.B.A. from the University of Chicago and is fluent in Mandarin Chinese, reflecting her versatility and ability to navigate global business landscapes. Her career exemplifies the power of strategic thinking, innovation, and collaboration in creating sustainable success.

DAVID KUFF

Public Relations
David Kuff is a senior marketing executive and accomplished brand strategist with extensive experience in public relations, advertising, and digital marketing. Throughout his career, David has worked with some of the world’s most recognized brands, including Marriott, Shell, Asics, All Nippon Airways, and leaders in global beauty products.

David has overseen the placement of over $100 million in advertising across digital, print, and broadcast platforms for high-profile campaigns such as the Holland Flower Council, Texaco Franchise Outreach Program, and the U.S. Navy Energy Efficiency Program. His ability to craft innovative campaigns has consistently delivered impactful results, positioning brands at the forefront of their industries.

As a thought leader in public relations and social media strategy, David’s work has earned feature coverage in top-tier media outlets, including Fox News Channel, CNN, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, NBC News, and the Huffington Post. His campaigns are known for their creativity, strategic precision, and ability to connect with audiences on a meaningful level.

David’s professional journey includes roles as Copywriter at J. Walter Thompson and PR Director at Hakuhodo, where he honed his skills in storytelling and brand positioning. He holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Maryland, which laid the foundation for his exceptional career in communications and marketing.

With a passion for building brands and elevating their stories, David brings a unique combination of strategic insight and creative vision to every project he undertakes.

DAVID LUDEWIG

Advertising & Media
David Ludewig is a seasoned executive specializing in media sales and business development, with a proven track record at some of the most prominent advertising and media agencies in the U.S. Over the course of his career, David has driven sales and new business initiatives for top-tier clients, consistently delivering measurable results and long-term growth.

As Director of Sales at Horizon Media, the largest independent media agency, David oversaw campaigns for major brands including GEICO, IHOP, Volvo, and others. His leadership in media strategy and client relations has made him a trusted partner for both agencies and brands across industries.

David has also held senior sales roles at Ionic Media, Davis/Elen, CBS Radio, Castells y Asociados, and The Gary Group, where he worked with high-profile clients such as the L.A. Times, Toyota, McDonald’s, HBO, Showtime, and Spike TV. His expertise spans traditional and digital media, offering clients a strategic advantage in today’s evolving advertising landscape.

A passionate advocate for industry development, David is a board member of Ad Relief of Greater Los Angeles and a regular guest lecturer at USC’s Annenberg School of Media Communications, where he shares his insights on media strategy and innovation with the next generation of industry leaders.

David holds a B.A. in Rhetoric and Communications from the State University of New York, which provided the foundation for his expertise in storytelling, persuasion, and strategic communication. His career exemplifies excellence in building relationships, creating opportunities, and driving success in the competitive world of media and advertising.

TAKA ARAI

Film Manager
Taka Arai is a renowned creative specialist and accomplished producer with decades of experience in film production, advertising, and public relations. As the founder of Pathfinder Pictures, Taka has produced critically recognized films, including Until The Night (starring Norman Reedus), Yellow (starring John Cho), and Shadow Fury (starring Fred Williamson). Pathfinder Pictures also distributes an impressive catalog of over 250 feature films, cementing its place as a leader in independent film distribution.

Prior to founding Pathfinder Pictures, Taka served as Director of Advertising and PR for Warner Bros. Japan, where he released blockbuster films such as The Lion King, The Fugitive, The Bodyguard, JFK, and Silence of the Lambs. Under his leadership, these films broke sales records and set new benchmarks for success in the Japanese market.

Taka’s expertise extends beyond film production and distribution. He has held prominent roles as Creative Director and General Manager at top advertising agencies, including Hakuhodo Advertising Los Angeles. His innovative campaigns have earned numerous prestigious accolades, including Clio Awards, Belding Awards, NY Art Directors Club Awards, and Los Angeles Art Directors Club Awards, reflecting his exceptional talent and industry influence.

Taka’s dynamic career showcases his unique ability to blend creativity with strategy, delivering impactful results across entertainment, advertising, and media. His visionary leadership continues to inspire and shape the future of the creative industries.