JOHN AUSTIN BARKLEY
Producer · Creative Director · Media Strategist
Napa Valley, CA
Overview
For over two decades, John Austin Barkley has stood at the intersection of cinematic storytelling, digital media strategy, and culinary culture. As former Director of Strategic Initiatives and Digital Media at The Culinary Institute of America and principal of Austin Barkley Productions, LLC, John has produced and directed award-winning documentary series, global online learning platforms, and high-impact media campaigns across more than 30 countries.
A strategist and hands-on creator, John specializes in translating complex culinary traditions, enterprise brand strategies, and educational frameworks into compelling visual stories that engage global audiences. His work has earned two James Beard Awards, a Silver Telly Award, and an IACP Award of Excellence, reaching over 25 million viewers worldwide.
Capabilities & Services
Whether leading creative and production teams or advising consumer brands and media platforms on strategic initiatives, John delivers end-to-end expertise across four core pillars:
Documentary Films & Video Production: On-location cinematic filmmaking, trailer and promo direction, scriptwriting, food and travel documentary series, and post-production oversight.
Online Learning & Certification Platforms: Strategy, curriculum design, video-based training, and white-label digital learning initiatives—including global professional certification programs adopted by tens of thousands of professional learners worldwide.
Creative Direction & Brand Strategy: Product positioning, messaging frameworks, visual identity, campaign architecture, and executive presentations.
Production Workflows & Emerging Tech: Rapid prototyping, digital asset management (DAM) strategy, and seamless integration of generative AI workflows into production pipelines.
Select Clients & Global Partners
Consumer Brands & Enterprise
Samsung · Trader Joe’s · Kikkoman · Unilever Food Solutions · Hyatt Hotels International · Compass Group
Governments & International Trade Boards
Thailand Tourism / Ministry of Commerce · Foods from Spain (ICEX) · Almond Board of California · Canadian Lentils · Balsamic Vinegar of Modena · Apulia Region of Italy
Educational & Media Partners
Google & Lobster Ink · Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health ·
Work With Me
Available for executive creative leadership roles, media advisory consulting, and select documentary production partnerships.