Rich Uphues - Partner
Rich has 23 years expertise in developing and managing all aspects of advertising. He is responsible for supervising creative and client services at Crome. Prior to starting Crome, Rich was a partner and managed the creative department at Schafer Condon Carter, an award-winning creative boutique in Chicago working on high-profile brands such as Cat’s Pride, Azteca Tortillas, Bertuccis Restaurants, McCain/Ore Ida, Herman Miller and Cole Taylor Bank.

He started his career back in 1985 as an art director in the creative department of Grant Jacoby, Chicago where he created and developed the new media services department and integrated it with the creative team. His experience in developing national campaigns evolved from Dubuque, Popsicle, Sears, Quaker, Dominos, Ameritech, Aldi, Wilson Sporting Goods and Associates Financial Group.

Nino Despota - Partner
Nino has had a very diverse and distinguished 19-year career in Chicago. As partner of Crome, he manages the creative product and makes sure we deliver the best solution for our clients. Throughout his career he has worn many hats from concept development to production. He has created many notable campaigns for national clients. He was also instrumental in trailblazing the use of new media at Frankel and implementing the Digital Creative Service Department at Leo Burnett. He met Rich at Schafer Condon Carter working as a Sr. Art Director on consumer electronics and food service.

Before joining Rich, Nino owned and operated a design/manufacturing business. Missing the excitement of advertising, he soon rejoined with Rich as partner in Crome.

We have strategic relationships in media, research, creative and production with dedicated partners who specialize in their fields and offer superior resources.