Scott Varland | Head of AI Strategy & Innovation at StrawberryFrog

Scott Varland has built his career at the edge of what's newly possible. For more than two decades, he has explored how emerging technologies can transform the way brands connect with people, not as novelty, but as durable capability. Today, as Head of AI Strategy and Innovation at StrawberryFrog, Scott leads the agency's AI and emerging technology vision, turning fast-moving tools into practical systems, product experiences, and breakthrough campaigns that feel real from day one.

Scott is known for shipping. Whether building agentic workflows, rapid prototypes, or production platforms, his work bridges experimentation and execution. He believes innovation only matters when it works in the hands of real users, and that AI, at its best, should amplify human creativity rather than replace it. His approach blends product-led marketing thinking, human-in-the-loop design, and a bias for action that keeps teams building instead of theorizing.

"Innovation only matters when it works in the hands of real users. My focus is on turning 'recently possible' technologies into durable capabilities and breakthrough experiences that feel real from day one." - Scott Varland

Before joining StrawberryFrog, Scott founded Firetower Futures, a consultancy helping media and advertising agencies use AI to build new capabilities, business models, and value propositions. Prior to that, he led Jack X, the U.S. innovation practice at Jack Morton Worldwide, where he built and tested emerging technologies to deliver immersive, responsive, connected brand experiences. He also headed Marketing Innovation at M Booth and led Creative Technology teams at IPG Media Lab and Reprise Digital within IPG Mediabrands. Earlier in his career, he founded Socialbomb, a mobile and social product studio acquired by Refinery29 in 2013.

Scott's work has earned industry recognition across innovation, digital platforms, and brand experience, including a Gold CLIO for HBO's True Blood Live Feed, a Silver CLIO for Coors Light's Sound of the Streets, and a Gold Smartie for Kia Nirobot, along with awards from the Webby Awards, Facebook Studio Awards, Glossy, PRSA Bronze Anvil, and Bulldog Reporter. He has spoken at IAB and SEGD Xlab on the intersection of technology, creativity, and culture.