Girvin, the Human Brand

Girvin has always been held in awe by many of his colleagues and peers. Years ago, when I was having lunch with the owner of a major ad agency, Girvin’s name came up in conversation.  He said, “Girvin really is who he says he is. He is a different thinker and an extraordinary talent.” 

Despite Girvin’s success, he carries himself with a certain humility. He knows shopkeepers, restaurant owners and waiters by first name and is ever curious about who they are and what they care about.  When I was having breakfast with Girvin to interview him for this article, a Hispanic man came bursting out of the restaurant kitchen to thank him. The man spoke in rapid-fire Spanglish emotionally overjoyed and full of gratitude because Girvin had helped him.

Girvin had written a letter of recommendation so that the man could get a job as a cook.  I have no doubt the letter was a Girvin—artfully designed with the same intention and care that he takes with everything he touches.