• KRISZTINA
    USTINOV
    CREATIVE
    MARKETER

  • MARKETER - STRATEGIST - CREATIVE

     Thinking in strategies - involving fun - passionate about the exposure button on camera

    broken image

    Marketer

     

     With 20+ years of experience, I am a qualified marketer with a history of proven success. I have managed large-scale national campaigns with substantial budgets and full responsibility, and I have also driven high-impact results for SMEs through effective, small-budget campaigns.

     

    My LinkedIn profile

    broken image

    Photographer

     

    I started exploring photography in 2013 with my first DSLR and haven’t put it down since, continually upgrading as I hone my craft. I’m drawn to capturing contrast, subtle details, and moments that invite reflection—always seeking the point of no return to preserve a fleeting story. 

    Some of my photos

    broken image

    Videographer

     

    From the start of my career, I’ve worked closely with creatives and gradually became one myself. I am now skilled in producing interviews, short films, and music videos—from recording and directing to editing, adding animations, and enhancing with effects. 

     

    broken image

    Political Scientist
    (sort of)

     

    I studied Political Science at ELTE-AJTK, where my primary interest was in communication. From there, I was quickly immersed in the heart of Hungarian politics, embracing every high and low along the way. Gradually, I carved my own path, transitioning from the political arena into the dynamic world of marketing. 

    broken image

    Songwriter

     

    I was tiny little when I started to play zither in a band. I did't reach the table, so I carried a little step with me to the stage every time on concerts. Music always had an important role in my life. I wrote a handful of songs, please check them out. They're nice ;)

     

     

    Some of my music videos

  • JOURNEY SO FAR

    broken image

    Brand & Marketing Manager

    Lime Health

    London, UK

    At Lime Health, I’ve had the honour of not just shaping, but truly bringing the brand to life. I spearheaded the formation of our brand identity, crafting a distinctive voice and visual narrative that resonates deeply with our audience. It’s been immensely fulfilling to see our brand come alive through carefully targeted communication strategies. Working within a collaborative, purpose-driven culture alongside an inspiring leadership team, I have everything a marketing professional could wish for: a visionary purpose, strong relationship with a dedicated sales team, and an environment that encourages impactful storytelling. This role has allowed me to lead with creativity and purpose, driving a brand that reflects both our ambition and our mission.

    broken image

    Marketing and Brand Manager

    Timberlake Consultants

    Richmond, UK

     

    My time at Timberlake was the shortest yet most challenging chapter of my career—a period that taught me invaluable lessons about what truly defines a positive and nurturing workplace. This experience clarified for me the essential ingredients of a thriving environment and demonstrated how the absence of supportive leadership, open communication, and collaborative team spirit can stifle creativity, diminish enthusiasm, and impact well-being. Although difficult, it gave me a profound appreciation for workplaces that foster strategic thinking, trust, optimism, and genuine human connection. It deepened my gratitude for cultures where team spirit, respect, and inspired leadership are daily practices rather than just words. I’m proud to have endured and emerged from this experience with a clearer understanding of what a truly empowering workplace looks like, and I’m more motivated than ever to contribute to such environments.

    broken image

    Twelve15 - Surrey County Council

    Marketing & Brand Manager

    Epsom, United Kingdom

     

    This remarkable opportunity at Surrey County Council - Twelve 15 embodies the aspirations of every marketer seeking to make a significant and meaningful contribution to both the business and the market. I take immense pride in the collective achievements of our team, as we successfully undertook the branding journey without the need for external agencies. It was an extraordinary experience to spearhead the creation of a captivating brand, imbued with a vibrant and joyful personality, from the ground up. The underlying cause we championed was truly inspiring: nourishing the future of Surrey by providing meals to over 40,000 school children each day. Very proud for the result!

     

    broken image

    Marketer, Digital Media Producer

    The Chartered Institute of Marketing

    Cookham, United Kingdom

     It was a true privilege to learn and practice marketing at the very heart of the industry. With 200% dedication, I embraced the deep end, working alongside exceptional people and inspiring leaders. I contributed to the rebranding of CIM and was deeply involved in marketing activities at all levels, from strategic initiatives to multi-channel campaigns for CIM Academy’s product portfolio and digital qualifications. I played a key role in new product development for CAM, collaborating with research agencies to provide insights that supported the Board’s decision-making. Additionally, I improved internal engagement across the organisation by implementing both digital and traditional internal marketing strategies. Leveraging my skills as a professional photographer and videographer, I enriched marketing campaigns with compelling audiovisual content, creating photos, videos, and animations. CIM was a beautiful organisation with inspiring people—the true hub and heart of marketing.

    broken image

    Marketing Manager

    Ontime Chauffeur Hire, Ontime Cars

    Maidenhead, United Kingdom

    Upon joining the company, I led a comprehensive rebranding initiative that drove substantial growth and transformation. Over four years, our fleet expanded to 35 vehicles, annual turnover tripled, and we opened an additional office. Our strategic efforts also resulted in a remarkable surge in brand awareness, elevating it from 12% to 84%. This rebranding not only strengthened our market presence but also positioned the company for sustained success.

    broken image

    Creative Advisor

    Budapest, Hungary

     

    I had the unique opportunity to collaborate with Dopeman, a renowned Hungarian artist and rapper, on the creation of his popular trash reality TV show, which captivated hundreds of thousands of regular viewers. This experience was a joyful highlight in my career and sparked a lasting interest in media production. Working on this project deepened my understanding of audience engagement and introduced me to the dynamic world of television production, fueling my passion for creative media endeavours.

    broken image

    Chief Digital Communication Officer

    Tancsics Mihaly Foundation - Hungarian Socialist Party in government 2002-2010

    Budapest, Hungary

     

    In the Thick of It. Literally.

     

    In 2005, my university research highlighted the emerging impact of social media, capturing the attention of the governing party. Building on my findings, I developed an innovative, multifaceted communication system that transformed internal and external party communications. This tool enabled seamless campaign coordination, facilitated meetings, broadcasts, and media interactions. Leading the project from concept through execution, I introduced a groundbreaking platform that connected politicians more closely with their audience—revolutionising political engagement at a time when e-democracy was a major focus in the EU. This remains a defining accomplishment of my career, showcasing my ability to pioneer strategic solutions that bridge theory and impactful real-world application.

    broken image

    National Campaign Coordinator

    Werber Public Affiars

    Budapest, Hungary

     

    Embracing the nonstop rhythm, a life on the move. The most adrenaline-fuelled chapter of my journey, where the office became my home and visits to my actual abode were rare. Immersed in the exhilarating world of hardcore politics, national campaigns, and the behind-the-scenes manoeuvring that shapes the political landscape. Navigating the art of response amidst attacks and mastering the delicate balance of crisis communication. This whirlwind experience was an invaluable crash course, propelling me from zero to hero in the realm of authentic communication and public life.

  • WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT ME

    broken image

    Allyson Lloyd

    Regional Manager
    Twelve15, Surrey County Council

    Krisztina’s passion, enthusiasm, energy, personality and work ethic are infectious. She is inspirational in driving a fresh approach to marketing and communications.

    A consummate professional she challenges the norm with her creativity. Rebranding our organisation was fun with Krisztina, she pushed everyone’s limits and opened up free thinking ideas and a fresh approach.

    Working with Krisztina is fun, fast paced and creative. The customer lies at the heart of all that Krisztina touches. Her work ethic is second to none, her range of skills and talents are awesome.

    She is unique, caring, loyal, fun loving, she demands the best, she is uber talented, she is Krisztina!

    /2021/

    broken image

    Mr. Thomas Brown

    Director, Strategy and Marketing
    The Chartered Institute of Marketing
    Krisztina is truly one-of-a-kind. And I'm not saying that in the liberal and clichéd way it's too often used. She's one of the most creative thinkers I've met, and has an annoying ability to find talent in whatever she turns her hand to. She's a passionate marketing and communications professional who instinctively thinks (and keeps bringing herself back to) 'customer', where many disappear into an internal perspective far too quickly. She's developed a great knowledge of the marketing and digital landscape, without getting distracted by hype. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Krisztina and think we were fortunate to have her as part of our team. She's smart, hard-working (understatement) and capable of managing complexity and pressure with flair. Oh, and has an award-winning sense of humour which kept me sane many a time. #star
    /2015/
    broken image

    Mr. Ferenc Gyurcsany

    Prime Minister of Hungary 2004-2009

    "Mrs Ustinov was very loyal, hard working, team player with the talent of conflict management. Without her we would not have such a virtual place that is future competent, user friendly, modern, extendable, important and indispensable, that well describes her brilliant capabilities, attitude and values"  /2009/

    broken image

    Dr. Ferenc Baja

    Secretary of State (Hungary)
    President of Tancsics Mihaly Foundation

    If a business wants to grow, if a business needs creative, fresh approach and endless enthusiasm with highly skilled professional, a professional who can learn skills quickly, who can adopt different circumstances smoothly, and someone who does not know the expression: can’t do it, Krisztina is a must have.

    /2009/

    broken image

    Dr. Katalin Szili

    Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament 2002-2009

    "Krisztina was a strong part of my team. Her creativity and "there is no impossible" attitude made huge difference to my political campaign, lifting it up to a higher, much more positive and engaging level than before. Her loyalty and professionalism was always unquestionable. She is greatly missed from our society."

    /2009/

    broken image

    Mr. Ron Werber

    Political & Campaign Strategyst

    "Mrs Ustinov's competence, dedication and hard-work were a very important pillar of our success. Her skills & talent, her capability to learn new things quickly & adopt instantly new projects, her commitment and devotion to her job -together with her excellent interpersonal relations - were a huge asset to all of us." /2004/

  • GET IN TOUCH!

    If you want to know more, or you think I could be a catalyst to your business or project, get in touch! :)