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Studio Manager
Impact XM
Chantilly, VA
May 2018 - Present (6 years 7 months)
Managed the schedule for the 3D, 2D, and engagement creative teams in four locations and developed design strategies, managed workflow, collaborated with the various teams (Estimating, Project Managers, Sales, and Account Management). Served as liaison between the design and account teams, helped set expectations, and made sure to meet or exceed them. Communication was a key part of the position. Learned the personalities and what to expect from each person and maintained a positive attitude within the department. Mentored designers, providing assistance as needed and encouraging cultivation of their ideas and concepts. Provided a positive influence and constructive feedback. Orchestrated presentations and design pick-ups. Worked with clients while keeping the design intent intact and remained profitable.
• Promoted to Studio Manager in 2018 after exceeding expectations in all critical areas of evaluation and created a team environment with three direct reports
• Managed information disbursement to drive projects through Impact XM’s systems, including maintaining work orders, creative briefs and design schedule, as well as communicating information to all departments in an effective manner
• Facilitated design schedule with accurate data and updated information for all four office locations
• Created a new internal process for design briefs with executive leadership and trained over 25 account directors
• Coordinated with outside creative talent/freelancers, set and achieved milestones as well as generated purchase orders for outsourced talent, vendors, and client interaction
• Scheduled and confirmed appointments/meetings; aided in preparation for presentations and meetings
• Participated in weekly meetings with creative team and supervised all junior designers, 2D designers, and junior engagement specialist
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Senior Exhibit Designer
Impact XM
Oct 2004 - May 2018 (13 years 7 months)
Developed custom layouts and specifications for lobby interiors, kiosks, and cabinetry. Created and produced ready art layouts for use in large format graphic applications, dimensional renderings, graphic layouts, and production proofs. Researched new materials and order samples of new products.
• Promoted to Senior Graphic Designer in 2008 after exceeding expectations in all critical areas of evaluation
• Interacted with clientele, vendors, internal departments, and agencies to understand scope of work, requirements, desires, functional considerations, budget, deadlines, and final design presentations
• Planned, initiated, and lead ‘dry run’ meetings for presentations with sales department, senior project management, and art director to develop presentation technique and strategy
• Maintained records of the elements, costs, and time schedules of multiple projects
• Elected member of several internal focus committees responsible for recommendations to Atlantic executives
• Promoted to head of the employee engagement team in 2015; motivated staff through internal social media and meetings at multiple office sites