Michael Werthwein

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16 Woolley Way
Wayside NJ 07712
201.618.5603

Portfolio: www.mwdesignsinc.com
Werthwein

ART DIRECTION / GRAPHIC DESIGN

Talented designer with an impressive portfolio and record of driving business fo
r diverse industries. Passion for creating stunning, sophisticated, and unique d
esigns that immediately attract clients. Skilled in developing high-impact web s
ites, marketing materials, brand identities, and print designs. Track record of
meeting demanding deadlines, communicating effectively with cross-functional tea
ms, and leading by example. Dedicated to finding the most cost-effective and cre
ative solutions for all challenges. Known for taking a hands-on approach in dire
cting artists, collaborating with clients, and bringing creative concepts to lif
e. Core competencies include:

Artistic Leadership: Graphic Design; Photo Art Direction; Typography; Layouts &
Compositions; Font & Color Management; Environmental Graphics; Multimedia Develo
pment; Trend Research
Team Management: Staff Inspiration & Management; Designer Training; Project Mana
gement; Production Oversight; Conceptual Direction; Quality Assurance
Online Development: Web Site Design; Interactive Interfaces; E-mail Graphics; Si
te Functionality Improvement; Wireframe Creation; Usability Testing; Site Inform
ation Architecture
Print Materials: Brochures & Catalogs; Posters & Signs; Collateral Materials; Pu
blication Development
Company Branding: Identity Development; Logo Design; Packaging Design; Product D
evelopment; Client Service
Marketing Support: Interactive Campaigns; Promotional Conceptualization; Direct
Mail; Ad Development
Technical Skills:Adobe Creative Suite: Illustrator; Photoshop; InDesign; Flash.
ActionScript; HTML; Mac OS

CAREER / LEADERSHIP SUCCESS

MWDesigns Inc, Wayside, NJ, 2006 to Present
Art Director: Design web sites, e-mail marketing campaigns, banner ads, and e-co
mmerce interfaces. Generate compelling printed marketing materials such as broch
ures, catalogs, stationary, advertisements, signage, and retail graphics. Direct
and motivate cross-functional teams and suppliers to obtain the best designs, i
llustrations, and photography. Approve proofs, supervise press runs, and control
budgets. Ensure full adherence to high quality/design standards. Effectively wo
rk with a wide variety of companies and business owners while seamlessly coordin
ating different assignments. Deliver persuasive presentations and actively liste
n to clients in order to identify/fulfill all project requirements. Clients incl
ude Madison Marquette, Hartz, and Pepsi.

Key Results:
=] Reduced costs by completing mechanical production functions in-house.
=] Strengthened brand identities by developing distinctive logos and powerful ma
rketing campaigns that garnered national attention.
=] Kept designs fresh and up-to-date by continually incorporating the latest tec
hniques and technologies.
=] Quickly grew business with word-of-mouth advertising; developed a sterling re
putation for doing whatever it takes to deliver superior products and design con
cepts to all clients.

Saramax, New York, NY, 2003 to 2006

Senior Graphic Designer / Men s Division: Conceptualized, planned, and produced
popular fashion lines for specialty stores and mass retailers. Developed high-im
pact promotional materials. Followed the hottest trends and utilized the newest
art production techniques. Prepared files for pre-press output; provided flight-
checking, produced color proofs, created press-ready PDFs, and sent files/proofs
to the printer.
Key Results:
=] Successfully created a high-performing design and production art team.
=] Provided expert art direction, trained junior designers, and ensured full cli
ent satisfaction.

Briefly Stated, New York, NY, 1999 to 2003

Senior Graphic Designer: Skillfully managed the entire product design process; p
rovided in-depth market research, conceptualized product lines, created inspirat
ion boards, generated designs/sketches, fit garments, and clearly communicated a
ll specifications. Continually identified new trends, fabrics, and techniques by
researching global markets. Strengthened vendor relationships. Clients include
Lucky Brand, Levi s, and Playboy.
Key Results:
=] Successfully led graphic and print direction for seasonal themes, line edits,
and new concepts.
=] Developed highly effective strategies, established business direction, and en
sured products reflected their brands while working closely with the Product Man
ager.
=] Created sales presentations that led to the acquisition of several high-end b
rands and licenses.