Hugo Veiga: The Award-Winning Portuguese Creative Returns to Lisbon!

Hugo Veiga’s Remarkable Journey

After 20 years abroad, Hugo Veiga, the most awarded Portuguese creative, is back in Portugal to take on the role of Global Chief Creative Officer at AKQA in Lisbon. Known for his impressive collection of 60 Lions from the Cannes Lions, Veiga has made a significant mark in the creative industry.

Career Highlights

Veiga first gained recognition as the Best Copywriter of the Year at the Cannes Lions 2013. He co-founded the AKQA studio in São Paulo, where he led creative projects for renowned brands and artists, including Usher, Elton John, and Lady Gaga.

Achievements at AKQA São Paulo

Under his leadership, the AKQA São Paulo office was awarded the title of “Happiest Office in WPP” in 2018 and was named “Agency of the Year in Latin America” at Cannes Lions in 2019 and again at the One Show in 2020. The office has also secured a Grand Clio for five different clients over five consecutive years.

Cannes Lions Accolades

Among his 60 Cannes Lions, more than 25 are Gold, including 4 Grand Prix for campaigns like “Dove Real Beauty Sketches”, “Nike Air Max Graffiti Stores”, and “Nike Never Done Evolving feat Serena”.

Recognition and Contributions

In 2019, he was named the Best Creative Director in Brazil by PropMark, a leading industry publication. He served as the Latin America Chair at the Andy Awards and was the jury president for the Mobile category at Cannes Lions 2022.

Beyond Advertising

Outside the advertising realm, Veiga has worked as a screenwriter and actor in three Portuguese comedy shows, lent his voice to animated characters, won two editions of the Lisbon Improvisation Theater Contest, created a limited series for the Renault Clio, and was the lead vocalist of Moda Foca, a 90s rock band he humorously describes as “without fans or talent.”