Claude Zdanow - CEO - ONAR

Claude Zdanow is a visionary leader in the business and marketing industry, boasting nearly two decades of unparalleled experience in scaling and directing multiple marketing and advertising enterprises. His strategic acumen has transformed startups into global brands valued at tens of millions of dollars. Zdanow's impressive client portfolio includes industry giants such as 7-Eleven, Brown Forman, Disney's FX Networks, The Recording Academy, Peter Thomas Roth, Pernod Ricard, Rolls Royce, Steven Soderbergh’s Singani 63, and Microsoft’s Xbox. Throughout his career, he has successfully executed transactions exceeding $100 million in cash value, encompassing acquisitions, capital raises, asset sales, financings, restructurings, and other corporate financial activities.Before venturing into marketing and advertising, Zdanow built a formidable reputation in the music industry, initially as a musician and later as an entrepreneur. He founded and grew companies that collaborated with top-tier artists like Avicii, The Chainsmokers, Chris Brown, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Eminem, Drake, and Yo-Yo Ma. His businesses were involved in 22 Grammy Award-winning projects and received 30 Grammy nominations, reflecting his significant impact on the music scene.As a dynamic and insightful speaker, Claude engages global audiences on topics including business, marketing, M&A, and music. His thought leadership has been featured in prestigious media outlets such as Bloomberg, Rolling Stone, Forbes, Inc. Magazine, MarketWatch, and The Village Voice. He has also served as an industry expert for renowned organizations and events like The Recording Academy, The Organization of American States, Grammy Camp, Pro Audio Summit, Rotterdam Beats, SAE University, Columbia Business School, Winter Music Conference, and Amsterdam Dance Event.Currently, Zdanow is the CEO of ONAR (OTCQB:RELT), a publicly traded marketing agency network that acquires and develops marketing agencies specializing in driving growth for clients across various sectors, including consumer products, entertainment, spirits, and healthcare. Beyond his corporate achievements, Zdanow is a mentor, advisor, and board member to startups and businesses, including Endexx Corporation & Chemtech. His passion for nurturing entrepreneurial talent and business leadership is matched by his love for wine and hospitality. He is the founder of Sona Hills, a boutique vineyard resort in Paso Robles, CA, and Claude Philippe Wines, where he combines his business acumen with his personal interests.