Meet Orlando Baeza, Chime’s VP of Brand and Creative. From launching global gaming franchises to helping redefine how fintech shows up in culture, Orlando’s career has been rooted in transformation—and powered by purpose.
In this Q&A, he reflects on the motivations behind his work, the campaigns that are reshaping Chime’s brand presence, and the leadership principles that guide his team. His answers are candid, creative, and full of heart—just like the work he champions every day.
Q: What drives your work?
Starts with family. My wife and two daughters, my parents, in-laws, and sisters—they’re the “why” behind every late night, every leap. Then I’m driven to do world-class work at all times – and that’s the reason I push to build something impactful and effective with every piece of work.
Q: Your career spans global brands and buzzy startups. What connects it all?
Transformation. Whether it’s launching Call of Duty around the world or scaling a member-first and member-loved fintech brand at Chime, I’ve always chased work that disrupts, elevates, and reframes what’s possible. I’m part builder, part storyteller—and always all in.
Q: You’ve led Brand at Chime during a time of major evolution. What stands out?
It’s definitely an exciting time. We’ve launched firsts that reshaped the playbook—from bringing celebrity talent into our TV spots to our NBA campaign to bringing Chime Lane to WrestleMania. But more than just moments, we’ve started to further tap into movements that connect with culture, and it’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Q: How do you lead teams?
With purpose and presence. While I know they drive some people, I’m not interested in titles—I’m here to build cultures. I want people to say, “I feel seen. I belong. And I’m doing the best work of my career here.” That’s the kind of leadership that lasts.
Q: What’s your creative motto?
Make dope shit. Sometimes it can just be that simple. No matter the budget or the brief, the work has to move people. It has to make you feel something—joy, pride, urgency, chills. That’s the bar.
Q: Who are you hoping to inspire?
The kid who doesn’t see themselves in the industry yet. The builder without a blueprint. The marketer who wants to lead with both hustle and heart. I’ve had people bet on me—and I make it my purpose to bet on others and lift people up in everything I do.
Q: What does this recognition mean to you?
It means the world—not just because it’s personal, but because it proves what’s possible. A first-generation kid from the Bronx doesn’t usually end up here. I’ve beaten pretty much every statistic that said I couldn’t be here. But nobody’s built like you – you design yourself.