Lewis Lazare: Nobody loves a publicity stunt like Bernie DiMeo of DiMeo & Co./Chicago. Still, we’ll take DiMeo at his word when he informs us he has named former Northwestern University star running back Darnell Autry as director of marketing for his boutique ad agency. Football fans may recall Autry was the offensive player of the year and a Heisman Trophy finalist in 1995, when he led the Northwestern Wildcats to their first Rose Bowl appearance since 1948.
Subsequently Autry played briefly with the Chicago Bears and the Philadelphia Eagles after leaving Northwestern. He also pursued his passion for acting — appearing in several episodes of “What I Like About You” and “The District.” Now, it appears Autry is looking to add some advertising expertise to his resume.
Always on the prowl for new accounts, DiMeo believes Autry will be of help on the new business front, thanks to his various sports and Northwestern contacts. Autry also is expected to do some work with DiMeo’s account team for current clients, which include the Chicago Bulls and Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits local co-op.
