I am a Pragmatic Optimist.
I can reconcile a dark cloud AND it's silver lining.
Being able to plan for best outcomes while contemplating the worst-case scenario has enabled me to mitigate risk and when necessary, embrace adversity with countermeasures already at hand. The ability to have the uncomfortable conversation or ask the tough questions others would rather avoid has benefited me, in both my personal and professional life, to seek out answers in a non-judgmental manner. In the workplace it presents as curiosity where “why” or “how” are not grand inquisitions but rather a vehicle to help drive to solutions and uncover opportunities. It translates into the willingness to identify challenges and work towards desired optimal solutions.
My entire life, I have identified as an artist (mosaic tile muralist, sculptor, oil painter, designer, illustrator). In my professional life, I have been brought onto projects as a graphic designer. When working with smaller clients, design and project management are inextricably linked and I have willingly wore both hats. I have come to a point where I want to exploit my natural talents and abilities, and despite winning awards in art, my natural inclination and personality is suited to project management of creative teams. To that end, I attained the PMP certification as confirmation of the professional I have been for over a decade.
Years ago, I was able to turn a design referral for a logo assignment into a rebranding engagement. What would have been a design-only project transitioned into larger coordinated projects that I managed. This included the creation of a visual identity system, generation of collateral for Marketing Dept., template assets for Sales Dept. toolkits, environmental design for Facilities and numerous other projects over the course of 3 years.
I have defined professional achievement by my ability to convert introductions and referrals into replicated client success stories.
My Process
Understand The Request.
Work directly with Client teams to understand project request, gather requirements, define objectives, deliverables and delivery dates.
Write clear and detailed project briefs for the Creative team, and answer any internal and external questions from Stakeholders.
Plan resources and develop a clear and actionable project plan which controls scope of work, project schedule, budget and quality requirements.
Explore The Options.
Understanding of Client specific operational management systems and adjusting the tools and resources as required to effectively manage each project.
Work with Client project teams to coordinate communication across creative, marketing, content, social, email and technology teams.
Identify project risks (threats and opportunities) and communicate risk responses.
Provide Solutions.
Ability to motivate and create positive team environments—both internal and external.
Oversight of third party relationships, including Print, Media, Photography, Video as well as ongoing vendor management.
Work closely with Creative teams and understanding the different specifications and implement quality control processes for print and digital design.
Drive communication across all teams working on deliverables.