ABOUT ME
Hertfordshire Based Creative Lead & Designer
A highly dedicated head of creative with eighteen years’ experience in a variety of exciting licensed brands. A passion for fresh and original design combined with a level headed and rational approach to clients’ needs. Working with some of the world’s biggest brands has led to an impressive portfolio of gift, fashion and accessories ranges. A hands-on approach to the entire creative process means that each project is curated with the utmost attention from inception to final delivery. A strong communicator with the ability to communicate ideas clearly to clients, licensor's and outsource efficiently to freelancers.
ATTRIBUTES
WHAT CAN I OFFER?....
· Creative thinking
· Project management - being involved in all aspects of the design process
· Taking an initial idea from a page to reality in a commercially viable and timely fashion
· Innovative product and packaging design
· Detailed knowledge of the licensing industry
· Doing detailed product specs
· Commercial awareness
· Presenting ranges, both on paper and in person.
· Creating bespoke style guides
· Problem Solving
· Delegating tasks
· Meeting deadlines
· People Management / Team building
· Staff tutoring and mentoring
· Excellent knowledge of CS Cloud
PAST EXPERIENCE
It’s All in the Details
ILLUSTRATOR & DESIGNER
December 2001 - July 2007:
Creating illustrations & designs for greetings cards, gift wrap & tags, gift bags, gift ware, crackers & stationery. I quickly gained status as a credited Disney artist in my specialist area, Classic and Disney Winnie The Pooh. I spent most of my time producing hand drawn Disney illustrations for all products. I also had to Formulate theme / trend boards & colour palettes for each new season.
Another facet of the role was working with the sales team to develop designs based on their sales reports and forecasts. Customer awareness was essential - knowing their styles, taste & their competition.
FOREVER COLLECTABLES
SENIOR DESIGNER
July 07 - November 2012
Working with the largest football clubs in the UK and Europe, my role was to generate ranges that were fresh
and vibrant for each season. Client liaison was an important part of the role - from initial briefing, discussing & forecasting trends, projecting ideas & range presentation.
I designed a wide and varied range of products including ceramics, scarves, key rings, plush & novelty items like gnomes & rubber ducks!
GLOBAL HEAD OF CREATIVE & STUDIO MANAGER
November 2012 - Present
Working with the world's largest brands I am responsible for directing & inspiring my team to create amazing product ranges that are both innovative & exciting. To do this I work closely with my designers, using my years of experience to guide and encourage them to be bold and brave with their designs. Other responsibilities include project management, attending meetings with customers and licensees to present new ranges & general management of the studio - everything from briefing in project to making sure my team are happy & productive.