Design4 committed to build an in-house video editing unit in 2005 to support our broadcast television clients. When three years later we decided to expand into full video production, the job description read like Mission Impossible: Find someone who could write, produce, direct, shoot and edit, who understood visual storytelling, wasn’t cowed by quick turnaround or broadcast deadlines, who possessed a pastor’s heart, loved BBQ, and didn’t require a lot of sleep.

As a testament to the power of prayer, in walks Ryan Hakes. Every engine needs a spark plug. Ryan is ours. Even has the red hair to prove it. He swears he learned to edit using two VCRs taped together…but his skill suggests otherwise.

As a producer for cable TV and television programs, coupled with (get this) his experience as an Associate Pastor, he is able to address relevant moral issues through the use of contemporary language and images. That just means his second language is video.

He came to Design4 from Brighthouse Networks where he was Creative Director. He received his BA in Leadership and Communications at Southeastern University. Ryan may or may not be a black belt in Ti Kwan Doe so it’s probably best not to stare directly into his eyes.

He and his wife Julie are newlyweds and enjoy hiking, scuba diving, photography (naturally), and really remote wilderness adventures.