RESUME
JEFFREY J. DOBBS
Writer • Photographer • Social Media Storyteller
SUMMARY
Writer, photographer, and social media storyteller with 10 years of experience influencing how sneaker and lifestyle audiences discover and engage with content across major digital platforms. Proven ability to craft narratives that align editorial voice, brand strategy, and real-time publishing, drawing from a career that spans contributions to Complex Media, leadership roles at Nice Kicks and Shop Nice Kicks, and community-driven storytelling at Forty-One Magazine and Kicks On Fire. Helped launch Complex Sneakers’ Instagram and later scaled Nice Kicks’ audience from 1.1M to 2.9M+ through a mix of strategic publishing, live event coverage, digital trend analysis, and visually led content.
Experienced in writing and editing high-volume sneaker and basketball articles, producing graphics and visual assets, developing campaign copy, and managing daily social calendars that tie together voice, visuals, and cultural moments. Adept at real-time coverage of sneaker releases, brand activations, and community conversations, blending photography, editorial storytelling, and data-informed decisions to grow and sustain engaged audiences. Trusted collaborator to brand teams, editorial groups, photographers, athletes, and creators, with a track record of delivering consistent, accurate, and culturally informed content across fast-paced media environments.
KEY SKILLS
Social Media Strategy • Copywriting & Editorial Storytelling • Photography & Visual Content Creation • Campaign Development • Community Growth & Engagement • Influencer Marketing • Content Optimization • Brand Partnerships • Trend & Cultural Analysis • Real-Time Publishing • Creative Direction • Remote Collaboration
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
SOLE RETRIEVER
Social Media Manager
• Created engaging content using data insights and real-time trend monitoring.
• Managed social calendars ensuring cohesive storytelling across all platforms.
• Wrote campaign copy that improved engagement and retention.
• Produced visuals for sneaker launches optimized for digital platforms.
FORTY-ONE MAGAZINE
Social Media Manager
• Partnered with brands and teams to launch global collaborations online.
• Developed strategies increasing engagement and web traffic.
• Authored promotional copy supporting campaigns and storytelling.
• Managed consistent publishing tied to sports and culture events.
SHOP NICE KICKS
Social Media Manager
• Designed and launched six Nice Kicks x New Era fitted hat collaborations.
• Led influencer outreach and event programs to expand visibility.
• Created storytelling and social copy for brand campaigns.
• Produced visuals and recaps highlighting launches and collaborations.
NICE KICKS
Social Media Manager
• Scaled Instagram from 1.1M to 2.9M+ followers through strategic storytelling.
• Developed content integrating copy, visuals, and live coverage.
• Guided brand tone for real-time publishing during launches.
• Collaborated with team to ensure consistent, accurate storytelling.
KICKS ON FIRE
Staff Writer & Facebook Manager
• Produced live updates for sneaker releases and cultural discussions.
• Managed Facebook growth and engagement strategy.
• Designed an adidas Samba sneaker for a holiday campaign.
• Created graphics and copy aligning with launch messaging.
COMPLEX MEDIA
Contributing Writer & Social Media Manager
• Wrote and edited 190+ basketball and sneaker articles.
• Helped launch and grow Complex Sneakers on Instagram and Twitter.
• Produced real-time coverage of key drops and brand releases.
• Collaborated with editorial and marketing teams for unified content.
MODERN NOTORIETY
Contributing Writer & Social Media Manager
• Wrote daily sneaker news and quick-turn features with accurate release details.
• Assisted with breaking updates, product coverage, and culture-driven stories.
• Created graphics and visual assets optimized for Modern Notoriety’s publishing style.
• Helped edit photos and support real-time posting across social platforms.
SELECT PROJECTS & HIGHLIGHTS
• Complex Sneakers Instagram Launch — Helped build the platform’s visual identity and community voice alongside Nick Engvall and Brandon Elder.
• Nike Adapt BB Global Launch — Covered Nike’s self-lacing basketball shoe debut with Jayson Tatum and Nike’s design team.
• Jeff Staple x Nike SB Private Event — Produced storytelling recognized by Nice Kicks founder Matt Halfhill as “the best in sneaker media.”
• adidas 747 Warehouse St. Festival — Captured behind-the-scenes content featuring Marc Dolce, Nick DePaula, and Denis Dekovic.
• Big Sean x PUMA Launch — Interviewed Big Sean and produced visuals highlighting the fusion of music, design, and sneaker culture.
(Full project archive available in “MY WORK” section.)
ENDORSEMENTS
• Clyde Edwards, Director of Marketing, Brand Energy & Partnerships, PUMA — “Jeffrey’s talent as a storyteller and his ability to engage community is an asset to any organization.”
• Jacques Slade, CEO, Fellows Avenue Productions and YouTuber @kustoo — “Jeffrey pushes himself and those around him to be better. His work is thoughtful, beautiful, and versatile.”
• Nick Engvall, Former Associate Editor - Sneaker Channel Manager at Complex Media — “His passion, depth of knowledge, and photography skills are unmatched.”
• Brandon Edler, Director of Brand, JD Finish Line — “He exceeds expectations and delivers thoughtful, impactful work that elevates every team.”
(Full endorsements archive available in “ENDORSEMENTS” section.)
QUALIFICATIONS RELEVANT TO BRAND & MEDIA ROLES
Proven expertise in social storytelling, sneaker culture, and creative content development.
Trusted collaborator with global brand teams, athletes, and creators.
Strong record of managing cross-platform storytelling and audience growth.
Recognized by industry leaders for professionalism, creativity, and cultural insight.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Remote-based creative professional in the Los Angeles area.
Specialties: Sneaker Journalism, Community Engagement, Visual Storytelling, and Photography.
Open to creative, media, and cultural storytelling opportunities.