Marquis

BACKGROUND

I am the Director, Global Congress Strategy & Scientific Events of Fresenius Medical Care

The Renal Research Institute (RRI) is a leading kidney research organization advancing clinical research, data-driven innovation, and scientific collaboration to improve kidney care and patient outcomes worldwide

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

• Create new brand identity and strategy for organization as new leadership came on.
• Develop brand messaging and a toolkit of marketing and event materials that communicates its unique positioning and skills/services.

SOLUTION

Referral

• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned

2-5 Employees

Marquis partnered with RRI during a significant leadership and organizational transition to redefine its brand identity, strategic positioning, and external presence. The scope included development of a new brand strategy and visual identity, a comprehensive brand book, updated messaging and positioning, and a digital capabilities brochure. The team also established the new look and feel for RRI’s website, including wireframes and design direction for the broader website refresh, and developed a toolkit of marketing and event materials to support consistent brand expression across channels. Beyond the creative work, Marquis worked closely with leadership to clarify RRI’s unique positioning, capabilities, and value proposition while helping translate the organization’s leadership transition into a cohesive and forward-looking brand.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

The project delivered a fully defined brand platform and visual identity, giving RRI a consistent foundation for how the organization presents itself across digital, marketing, and event channels. Key outcomes included a completed and adopted brand book, updated messaging and positioning, a digital capabilities brochure, a redesigned website experience and wireframes, and a standardized suite of marketing and event materials. The work also aligned leadership around RRI’s positioning, capabilities, and value proposition, while giving the organization a cohesive toolkit to apply consistently across future communications and business development efforts. The new brand system also reduced the need to recreate materials from scratch for each initiative and gave internal teams and external partners a clear framework for maintaining consistency.

Marquis has been an exceptional partner. They truly feel like an extension of our team because they understand not only the work itself, but also the key stakeholders, internal dynamics, and nuances of our organizational structure. They consistently deliver on time and are flexible when our timelines or priorities shift. Our weekly calls are especially valuable because they go beyond status updates and deliverables. They help us think strategically about how each project fits into the broader campaign and overall business objectives. I also appreciate that they do not simply say yes to every request. They ask thoughtful questions, challenge ideas when needed, and work through decisions collaboratively so that everyone is aligned before moving forward.

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What I find most impressive about Marquis is their ability to become deeply embedded in the work without losing the outside perspective that makes an agency valuable. They take the time to understand the organization, the people, the internal dynamics, and the larger strategic context behind each project. Because of that, their recommendations are thoughtful and tailored rather than generic. They also bring a strong point of view. They are willing to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and help us think through the bigger picture instead of simply executing what is asked of them. That combination of partnership, strategic thinking, and creative execution is what makes them unique.

I do not have a specific area for improvement that stands out at this time. That is not to say every project is perfect, but one of Marquis’ strengths is their willingness to continuously evaluate what is working, what could work better, and where we may need to pivot. If something is not landing as expected or circumstances change, they are quick to adjust and often proactively suggest a different approach. Because we regularly discuss lessons learned and how we can improve the next project or process, improvement feels built into the way we work together rather than something that only happens after a problem arises.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

We’re a global healthcare company that provides products and services. I’m the senior VP of communications in the medical office.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Marquis?

We hired them to help us with design and branding.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Marquis helps us with our brand identity and art direction. They’ve done everything from brand programs and a full brand refresh to full creative communications campaigns for initiatives.

They do graphic design for print, web, electronic, social media, and video. The team also designs our annual global medical report, a 150-page document. They oversee all of the digital assets and creative materials for that annual campaign, including social media assets and the design and creative used in our videos. They design many of our different medical office campaigns.

What is the team composition?

We’ve worked with anywhere from 4–6 people from within the firm, all of whom have been exceptional. This includes Julie (Principal & Founder), who serves as their art director. We’ve also worked with Taylor (Senior Designer), Mary Ann (Brand Strategist & Creative), and a project and account manager.

How did you come to work with Marquis?

We’ve had a long-term relationship with Marquis. I started working with them in 2013, when I was at another company. 

How much have you invested with them?

My company has spent more than $500,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

My current company has been working with Marquis for five years, since September 2016. The work is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

They deliver exceptional results, time and time again. Many of the campaigns that they've helped us create have digital components, so we can track how well they perform. These campaigns continue to be some of the highest-performing in our company.

How did Marquis perform from a project management standpoint?

Marquis does a superior job in terms of project management. They are amazing at keeping all of the programs on track. In many cases, they’re able to either improve on deadlines or come in with even greater efficiency.

They’re an excellent partner. They do a great job of listening to what the client is trying to accomplish, and they’re able to deliver design, branding, and creative materials that help the client do what they’re trying to accomplish. That really distinguishes them as a company.

What did you find most impressive about them?

First and foremost, the quality of their creative product is superior. The creativity of their design, as well as their approach to creating brands, is very thoughtful. When you add to that the project management, their excellent listening, and the overall client service, they’re just a real joy to work with.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I really can’t think of anything. We’ve been pleased on so many levels, and they’ve been a really important partner on several of our key projects. I really only have positive things to say — their design work is great, as is their service.

Any advice for potential customers?

Be open and clear about what your goals and objectives are. Marquis does a really great job of listening carefully. If you're clear about what you’re trying to accomplish, they can come back with a very thoughtful plan to help you do that.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the creative director of a large oceanography nonprofit.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Marquis?

After 60 years with an outdated logo, we needed a visual identity overhaul that represented the diversity of work and the reputation of our organization.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

The team created an entire visual identity brand guideline for us, based on interviews and previous data. This brand guideline included a responsive logo collection, new brand typography, colors, textures, photo guidelines, icons, and infographics.

What is the team composition?

Our primary contacts were the owner and a senior designer, though there may have been many behind the scenes.

How did you come to work with Marquis?

I found them on Clutch. Their reviews said they were in line with what we needed. Their website and consequent proposal were what brought us in. Their work is creative and professional.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in January 2020, and our work is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Our followers on social media think that the redesigned logo is fantastic, and while change is difficult, our staff also appreciate the fresh, new look. We’ve been around since 1930, so it was a difficult undertaking to update our visual brand and logo. They handled everything with grace and patience, as we have a lot of differing opinions and stakeholders.

How did Marquis perform from a project management standpoint?

They were great all along the way. They were very communicative and engaged. Any time I asked questions I would always receive a response the same day. The fact that we initiated this work, went into a global pandemic, and still managed to get everything completed is an incredible feat. We communicated via email and video conference.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re incredibly creative and thorough in their thinking. They collect a lot of data first before heading into the creative process. They were just very smart throughout the whole process.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I’m not sure. We didn’t finish as soon as we had expected to but that was an issue on both sides because of COVID-19.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

My advice is not to go in with any preconceived ideas. Let them be the professionals that they are. They do re-brands and they’re good at it. Trust that they’ll do the research and come up with solutions with you.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the sales and marketing director for InterPro Solutions, a software company that provides mobile products for facilities management. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Marquis?

We hired Marquis to assist us with a complete rebrand of our company. The list of deliverables included web development, marketing materials, and logo designs for our company and products.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted a website and online presence to match the positive reputation of our products and services.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

After an extensive online search, I invited two companies to present to our team. We wanted a local company that would communicate our message clearly in non-technical language. The Marquis team was the clear choice because they employed an in-house writer that would be part of the entire project.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

Marquis guided the entire branding process; they selected the colors and messaging for the logos. Once they completed branding, we moved to website development which was divided into two phases—building the main website and migrating the blog. We continue to work closely with Marquis. They create our tradeshow materials, brochures, online landing pages, and advertisements.

What was the team composition?

I work directly with the founder, brand strategist, and senior designer.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The website matches the sophistication of our software and complements the high level of service we provide our clients. Our employees are now proud to wear the InterPro logo on their shirts; they show off our website and marketing materials to their friends and family. My staff also provides me with input on future marketing ideas.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

I feel like the Marquis team was an extension of my own team. When I met Julie (Principal and Founder, Marquis) and Mary Ann (Brand Strategist, Marquis), I knew we would work well together. There were a lot of similarities, and the ideas they brought were even better than I had anticipated. Working with the team has been easy, and I enjoy each engagement we get to have.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

No, nothing comes to mind. Every time they send me options, I find it hard to pick the one I like best because I enjoy them all. Marquis understands our company, our products, and the industry we serve.

Are there any areas for improvement?

I wouldn't change a thing. Julie, Mary Ann, and Taylor (Senior Designer, Marquis) are the best. I look forward to our continued relationship.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the director of marketing for a design-build company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Marquis?

We needed help to create an updated brand personality for our 75-year-old company.

What were your goals for this project?

We were looking to create a story that differentiates us and helps us stay relevant to our clients in this very competitive market.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

After working with another local branding company, we didn't feel like they understood us nor were they helping to tell our story in a meaningful and impactful way. After some research, Marquis caught our eye. The way they told their own story inspired us to learn more. They were the perfect fit for us.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

They produced a new logo, tagline, and content to highlight our strengths along with a new website and marketing material.

What was the team composition?

We worked directly with their principal, her senior writing expert, and a very detailed project manager.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We’ve received tremendous positive feedback on our new website, tagline, and logo. Creating a new brand has helped us stand out among our competition. We're able to stay relevant with our existing clients and confidently reach out to new ones.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow and production schedule was laid out early, on and they kept us on task.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their principal was a delight to work with. Her energy and passion for our business were wonderful. I also thought their prices were fair, and they respected our budget.

Are there any areas for improvement?

We had a great working relationship with them, and I can't recall any areas that I would have changed.

BACKGROUND

I am the Managing Director of Rauch Foundation

The Rauch Foundation is a family foundation with two priority program areas: global food systems and financial literacy.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

• Rebrand of family foundation

SOLUTION

Referral

• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

2-5 Employees

Marquis offered a full service of branding, logo design, and website design.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Redesign of foundation for awareness of new programs focus

Marquis was always professional and proactive.

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

Personalized service, responsiveness to our needs.

No, we were fully satisfied