The group honored as the Advance Professionals wrote the book on live event promotion and management. Since the early days of P.T. Barnum it has been the work of those who executed the tour planning, marketing, advertising , sponsorship and public relations that made the circus a financial success. The circus is equal parts art and commerce. Nothing happens unless a ticket is sold. In the world of show business, without business there is no show.
Many alumni of this group have gone on to become successful entrepreneurs, agents, show producers, marketing and pr agency owners, sports and entertainment executives and venue managers. You will find them in leadership roles of media companies, major league sports (NHL, NBA, MLB, MLS), ticketing companies, concert and talent management, theme parks, fairs and expositions, cultural arts and non profit philanthropic organizations. The universal ties that bind the group is the collective shared learning experiences gained while working for the circus.
This is the biography of John Zamoiski, a member of the Advance Professionals group induction.
John M. Zamoiski’s professional trajectory is a testament to the enduring impact of his formative years in the circus, shaping a career marked by innovation, leadership, and a profound commitment to the entertainment industry.
Zamoiski’s circus journey commenced with his tenure at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey from 1976 to 1982, where he initially served as a Regional Marketing Director. His responsibilities spanned an extensive array of tasks, from orchestrating show logistics to spearheading comprehensive marketing campaigns across various locales nationwide. Notably, Zamoiski played a pivotal role in shaping the television campaigns for The Greatest Show on Earth tours and the Monte Carlo Circus, demonstrating his multifaceted skill set in marketing and media production.
Expanding his purview, Zamoiski established a national promotion office in New York, assuming oversight of the metropolitan marketing efforts for Ringling’s shows, including iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden and Nassau Coliseum. His adept management of promotional activities extended beyond the circus realm, encompassing renowned productions like the Ice Follies and Disney on Ice in the northeastern corridor.
Transitioning from the circus arena, Zamoiski continued to wield his expertise in entertainment marketing, founding Bottlerocket Marketing Group, a pioneering agency renowned for its diverse clientele in cable networks, live touring entertainment, and telecommunications. Under his stewardship, Bottlerocket garnered acclaim for its innovative campaigns, earning Zamoiski numerous industry accolades, including Emmy Awards, CTAM Mark Awards, and Reggie Awards.
In a testament to his enduring commitment to the industry, Zamoiski assumed leadership roles in various professional and civic organizations. He served as Chairman of the Promotion Marketing Association and contributed his expertise as a board member for esteemed institutions such as the Paley Center and the North Fork TV Festival. Additionally, Zamoiski’s dedication to education was exemplified through his tenure as an adjunct professor at NYU, where he imparted invaluable insights to aspiring entertainment professionals.
Zamoiski’s indelible imprint on the entertainment landscape persists to this day, as evidenced by his ongoing involvement in AdLarge Media, a premier firm specializing in podcasting and radio advertising. Furthermore, his commitment to preserving the legacy of the circus is reflected in his role on the Executive Committee of the Circus Ring of Fame, underscoring his unwavering dedication to honoring the rich heritage of the circus arts.
In recognition of his exemplary contributions to the entertainment industry and beyond, Zamoiski’s illustrious career stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the circus, informing and enriching every facet of his professional journey.
Professional Awards and Honors:
More than 100 awards including 2 Emmy’s, 50 CTAM Mark Awards, 12 Reggie Awards, 7 Brandweek Awards, induction in the Cable Pioneers and Ranking on the Cable TV 100.
Community, Civic and Industry Involvement:
John spent 10 years as an adjunct professor at NYU teaching senior level entertainment business course. He also served as the Chairman of the Promotion Marketing Association, on the Board of the Paley Center, on the Board of the North Fork TV Festival, on the board of the Cable Television Association for Marketing (CTAM). In addition, he created the “Ad-Lib” Annual Seminar Series at Washington & Lee University which brings advertising professionals to campus for a series of lectures every year.