Work
Experience
Apr 2023 – Nov 2024
Creative Workflow Manager
DLA Piper
Paragon
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Global Project Coordination: I am an integral part of a global creative production team,
coordinating, from start to finish and collaborating on diverse projects across AI, print,
digital content, social, events, campaigns and all other design project types. -
Collaborative Design Leadership: Working as a self-motivated Creative Production
Manager collaborating closely with Account Director and Creative Lead. Excelling in
multitasking, finding quick solutions, and remaining cool under pressure, fostering strong
client and team relationships. -
Innovative Studio Champion: I possess natural problem-solving skills and champion a
detail-oriented studio process. I strive for excellent communication, bringing innovation
using tools like Adobe Creative Cloud, Office 365, Co-Pilot, ElevenLabs, ChatGPT, Workbook,
and multiple AI platforms. I manage weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports with a focus on
day-to-day team operations, studio and project management, contributing a unique style to
the dynamic, creative environment in line with company values.
Mar 2020 – Apr 2023
Creative Studio Manager
Bank of America
Williams Lea
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As the leader and supporter of a talented team, I orchestrated the symphony of daily operations to achieve maximum efficiency and productivity. I was the conductor, carefully planning and scheduling activities to ensure the best use of time and resources.
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With a keen eye for detail, I monitored work in progress and scheduled work to proactively manage time and resources. I ensured the team's adherence to process, objectives, and contractual obligations, including SLAs and KPIs.
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As a role model, I led by example and consistently managed team performance, encouraging responsibility for personal development plans. I also organised training sessions tailored to each team member's development plan, and held team meetings, 1-2-1s, and performance reviews.
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Communication was key, and I ensured effective two-way communication with team members and clients alike. I also maintained a productive working atmosphere, promoting teamwork, service excellence, and commitment to daily production and contractual targets.
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Administrative tasks was not overlooked, as I maintained accurate and factual documentation and identified and mitigated information security-related risks. Additionally, I identified issues and proposed solutions, making sure that ad-hoc random quality assurance checks of the team's output are performed.
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And last but not least, I took pride in the selection and recruitment of staff, ensuring that only the most talented and dedicated individuals joined the team.
Jan 2019 – Dec 2022
Freelance illustrator
The Sun
News International
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As a Freelance Graphic Designer\Illustrator, I had the privilege of working with a major newspaper's graphics and sports graphics desk, where I thrived under the pressure of tight deadlines.
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My role involved creating captivating graphics for both news and sport features, bringing stories to life through the use of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Methode. Collaborating closely with a team of talented designers and editors, I was able to produce high-quality graphics within quick turnaround times.
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Each project is an opportunity for me to push my creativity to its limits and deliver exceptional work that captivates readers and engages audiences.
Mar 2019 – Mar 2020
Senior Creative Artworker
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Williams Lea
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As the Senior Creative Artworker, I oversaw and lead all aspects of print, digital, and interactive projects from concept to press. I am passionate about creating projects that truly embody the brand's essence and messaging, and work closely with my team of designers to ensure that every project is consistent with the brand's standards.
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In addition to overseeing design projects, I also took the initiative to restructure and manage our brand folder, ensuring that it is always up-to-date with the latest brand elements. To further streamline our processes, I developed and implemented our Creative Services studio's process, folder structures, naming conventions, and quality control processes. This enabled the team to work seamlessly together, ensuring consistency in all our projects.
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Furthermore, I created new templates for our studio, collaborating closely with the brand team for approval, and have taken on responsibilities such as workflow and print buying. Recently, we underwent a rebrand, and I had the opportunity to manage and create all printed stationery, working closely with the brand, legal, and compliance teams.
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My dedication to ensuring consistency, attention to detail, and strategic approach make me an asset to any project or team.
Feb 10 – Mar 19
Junior to Middleweight Graphic Designer
Barclays | Barclaycard | Barclays Capital
Williams Lea
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From junior to middleweight designer, I was privileged to earn a permanent promotion to the Creative Services department due to my exceptional performance during a six-month secondment and two months of intensive training.
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As a valuable member of a 12-person print and web team, I work on designing and executing investment bank branded projects that cover a wide range of deliverables, such as infographics, icon creation, event materials, printed banners, digital and printed brochures, exhibition stands, intranet imagery, merchandise, and much more.
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I am proficient in InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat, and Microsoft office, and I produce high-resolution files for production and print.
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My expertise has enabled me to interact effectively with demanding clients and to deliver consistently within tight deadlines.
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I am always learning and expanding my skill set and have recently started training in HTML/Adobe Dreamweaver. I am also trained in photography and have done many successful photo shoots, including headshots, profile shots, and events.
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Additionally, I covered the roles of workflow controller, client focus executive, and project manager daily.
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My extensive client-facing experience allows me to generate new business for the studio and provide top-notch customer service. I even stepped in for our studio manager when necessary, managing all administrative requirements.
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I also handle our outsourced print needs, including getting quotes and collaborating with clients to understand their print requirements.
Aug 06 – Jan 10
Reprographics Operator
Barclays | Barclaycard | Barclays Capital
Williams Lea
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As a Reprographics Operator in London, I was an integral member of a dynamic 12-person team on the front lines of the print industry. Working primarily on the day shift, I utilized state-of-the-art Xerox 7000 and 4110 machines, as well as large format printing equipment capable of producing stunning visuals at any size. My expertise extended beyond the printing process, as I was well-versed in all types of finishing techniques to provide a polished final product. In this fast-paced environment, I was constantly interacting with clients, negotiating deadlines, and pushing myself to meet even the most challenging of timelines. My ability to remain calm under pressure and think creatively in the face of tight deadlines made me an invaluable asset to the team.
Apr 06 – Jul 06
Reprographics Operator
Unilever
NRG/Ricoh
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As a skilled operator, I worked closely with a highly talented and dedicated team of four individuals who operated on different shifts to ensure we provided our clients with the highest quality print jobs possible. Using state-of-the-art Cannon 5000's and Ricoh/NRG machines, I skillfully operated all types of finishing equipment to produce exceptional results. I also took on the challenge of managing client design requests with ease, while ensuring to meet tight deadlines and maintain positive relationships with even the most challenging clients.
Jan 05 – Jul 06
Reprographics Operator
Institute of Education
NRG/Ricoh
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As part of a dynamic team of five, I thrived in a fast-paced environment, tackling a diverse range of print jobs, with a focus on producing high-quality black and white prints. I worked on state-of-the-art Ricoh/NRG high volume machines, utilizing a wide array of finishing equipment to deliver outstanding results for our clients. My exceptional time management skills and ability to prioritize effectively allowed me to handle urgent deadlines with ease, while my natural talent for customer service helped me navigate challenging situations with even the most demanding clients.
Aug 04 – Dec 04
Reprographics Operator
PJB Recruitment
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As a versatile temp, I had the opportunity to work at a variety of reprographics sites throughout London, from bustling central locations to more peaceful suburban ones, where I brought my expertise in operating a range of high-performance machines, including Ricoh/NRG models. My commitment to delivering exceptional service led me to accept last-minute requests, and I was always willing to go the extra mile - quite literally, as I didn't hesitate to travel as far as Kingston upon Thames to help clients meet their urgent deadlines. My adaptability and quick learning enabled me to get up to speed quickly on different machines and workflows at each new site, ensuring seamless operations and smooth execution of print jobs, while my friendly and professional approach helped me build rapport with even the most difficult clients.
Jul 02 – Jul 04
T-Shirt Printer
Things Fashion
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As a T-shirt printer, I honed my craft in the art of screen printing, mastering the intricate techniques involved in the process. During my time there, I also gained invaluable insight into the design aspect of the industry, and it provided me with a unique opportunity to explore my creative side. I worked hard to balance my studies, and my dedication paid off as I excelled in my G.C.S.Es. This experience taught me valuable time management and organizational skills that have served me well in my future endeavors.
Education
Jul 01 – Jul 02
Central Graphics Academy (London)
NVQ level 2 in Graphic Design
Attending Central Graphics Academy in London was a blast! I vividly remember the hustle and bustle of the city as I made my way to class each day. Learning graphic design was both challenging and rewarding, and I was thrilled to have earned my NVQ level 2 by the end of the program. The instructors were amazing and the curriculum was top-notch. I made some great friends along the way, and I still use the skills I learned at the academy in my work today. All in all, it was an unforgettable experience that I will always cherish.
Sept 96 – May 01
Bow Boys Secondary School (London)
GCSE's
English: B – C
Math’s: C – C
Science: D
Geography: D
Music: B
R.E: D
Volunteering
Nov 16 – Jul 18
Charity Work
East London
I had an amazing time working for a local charity in East London that was all about helping young people get off the streets and into boxing. It was incredible to see how much of a positive impact the charity had on so many lives, and I was proud to be a part of it. Not only did I get to train at the gym and get into the best shape of my life, but I also took on the challenge of white-collar boxing fights – it was exhilarating! As if that wasn't enough, I also took on all the print and design work for the charity and pitched in wherever I could to help out with running the gym. It's so rewarding to be a part of something that makes a difference in people's lives.
2015 – 2016
Tenterden Town Juniors FC
Kent
I had an absolute blast being the head coach at Tenterden Town FC Juniors! It was an amazing opportunity to share my love for football and teach children of all ages, from under 6's to under 16's, the fundamental skills and strategies of the game. As a director of the club, I was also able to contribute to the growth and development of the organization. Being a part of the club gave me the chance to build strong relationships with the players, their families, and the community as a whole. It was an incredibly rewarding experience and one that I will always cherish.
2014 – 2015
Tenterden Town FC
Kent
I started as a first team coach at Tenterden Town FC where I enjoyed taking training sessions and working alongside the Manager on match days. When the Manager left, I was offered the role of first team Manager and I jumped at the chance! I'm now working hard with the players and staff to create a winning team and make the club a huge success. It's been an exhilarating journey so far, and I'm loving every moment of it!
2013 – 2014
FC Hamlets
East London
I have had the privilege of coaching a successful Saturday level football team, FC Hamlets, during the last season where we triumphed in all five of the trophies we were involved in. My dedication towards the team was not limited to the coaching aspect alone; I also took charge of updating the website, designing the match day home programmes, and submitting match reports to three different papers on a weekly basis. My passion for the sport also led me to send previews and reports to East London Radio, where they were broadcasted over the airwaves. Although I have now relocated to Kent, my commitment towards coaching has not waned. I have taken up a coaching position with Tenterden Town FC and am eager to inculcate the same values and principles of coaching that brought about success for FC Hamlets.
2011 – 2013
Lord Morpeth FC
East London
As a passionate football enthusiast, I had a blast managing a Sunday Football team for two seasons! We had an absolute blast during our successful runs in the Hackney and Leyton League and the East London Sunday Football League. But then I got an exciting offer to coach at FC Hamlets, and I knew I couldn't let this opportunity pass me by!
2013 – 2015
East London Sunday Football League
East London
As a member of the East London Sunday Football League Committee, I held the critical role of League Advancement and Advertising Secretary. I played a crucial part in the league's growth by securing sponsorship deals, keeping the website updated, and providing weekly league round-ups to the local paper. In addition, I was responsible for managing design and web work for all the teams, responding to their requests and ensuring their needs were met. I also worked closely with East London Radio, providing reports and previews for broadcast. My contributions helped to establish the league as a reputable and professional organization in the community.
2011 – 2013
DJ'ing
Global from 16 to 28 years old
I had a blast working as a DJ! Starting off at home, I quickly moved on to booking gigs at local bars and clubs, and even abroad. I loved experimenting with different equipment, from the classic Technic 1200's and 1210's to more modern CDJ's. My music tastes varied from old-school garage from '95 to classic house from '89 and up to the latest hits, depending on the crowd and event. I always loved bringing the party to life and seeing everyone dancing and having a great time.