Christi R. Servera
Porter Ranch,CA
Summary
Dynamic merchandising and design professional with extensive experience in production and technical management, seeking to leverage senior leadership skills within a forward-thinking organization. Proven track record of guiding high-performing teams and implementing strategic initiatives that drive organizational growth. Expertise in directing cross-functional projects that yield significant process improvements and enhance operational efficiency. Recognized for exceptional leadership and communication abilities, fostering collaborative environments that deliver impactful results.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Design Director
Isla Maude
06.2023 - Current
- Responsible for creative direction and product development of all categories.
- Brought in to create the company’s new branded division (Direct to Consumer).
- Developing new relationships with factories and local vendors to create a better product and brand identity.
- Analyze and research the market to identify opportunities to stay ahead of the competition and to help with future design concepts.
- Manage all fittings to ensure fit standards maintain production timelines.
- Led design team in developing innovative product concepts, enhancing brand identity and market presence.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align design strategies with business objectives and customer needs.
- Oversaw design project timelines, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outputs while managing resources effectively.
- Evaluated and refined existing design workflows, increasing efficiency and reducing turnaround times for projects.
- Drafted capital and expense planning reports for design projects, incorporating prescribed budgetary limitations and timeframes.
- Spearheaded collaboration between departments for cohesive product launches, ensuring seamless integration of design elements across all touchpoints.
Costume Designer – PROJECT BASE
Nak Nek Films (Bentkey Ventures)
- Created costume designs for a 12-episode COLD WAR Documentary and a few commercials.
- Collaborated with the director and production team to ensure costumes aligned with creative vision.
- Held all fittings and tailoring to ensure excellent fit.
- Secured and picked all period pieces in union costume shops for accuracy.
- Maintained excellent communication with cast and crew, resolving issues promptly.
- Sourced fabrics, materials and accessories within budget, negotiating prices with vendors always resulting in savings.
- Designed costumes that align with character development and narrative themes.
- Collaborated with directors to interpret visual concepts and enhance storytelling through costume design.
- Managed costume inventory, streamlining organization for efficient access during production phases.
- Developed detailed sketches and technical specifications for production teams to follow.
Director of Merchandising and Design (CONSULTANT)
Line Apparel
09.2019 - 12.2019
- Handled all product development and creative direction for the clothing division.
- Create new sales strategies with teams.
- Managed all vendor relationships.
- Managed all garment fittings to ensure excellent fit.
- Worked closely with sewers and pattern teams to all garment productions stayed on schedule.
- Managed all design departments.
Director of Design and Merchandising
Paisley Raye Inc.
04.2016 - 09.2019
- Responsible for the creative vision of the company from the clothing to the branding
- Lead, developed and maintained over 300 small boutique partnerships.
- Maintained Brand esthetic.
- Directed strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency across departments.
- Created and worked multiple trade shows.
- Managed all fittings and created the size range and grading that worked strategically for this specific type of market.
- Worked closely with all fabric and trim vendors to establish a great work relationship for the company.
- Worked with both China and domestic vendors to develop product.
- Implemented data-driven decision-making processes to optimize resource allocation.
- Led cross-functional teams in executing high-impact projects aligned with corporate objectives.
Director of Design and Merchandising
La Mamba Clothing
09.2016 - 04.2017
- Director of Design and Merchandising (CONSULTANT)
- Responsible for the vision and creative direction of the line
- Expert in analyzing key trends and best sellers implementing new product strategies based on the information.
- Main account was Target along with other retailers.
- Started a graphics fashion screens line division.
- Handled all fittings to ensure the highest level of quality.
Director of Design and Merchandising/ Creative Director
LDLA Clothing LLC, (Living Doll)
02.2010 - 07.2016
- Lead role in growing the company from $0 to $58 million.
- Worked closely with the owner to bring forth her vision and help develop new business opportunities.
- Responsible for the vision and development of each line
- Lead a team of 50 plus people which consisted of Designer, assistants, graphic teams, 1st and production patternmakers and sewers.
- Directed cross-functional teams to streamline operations and improve product delivery timelines.
- Sourced and developed all fabric through both domestic and import vendors.
- Design and conceptualize all textile print and graphics. Work with graphic designer on finalizing and designing all art.
- Launched the first SO RADD (AWSOMENESS TV. License for Kohl’s) Created the concept and creative deck along with a video for the pitch.
- Developed and helped launch the companies direct to consumer business for both Jr. & Plus size.
- Line was being shipped to all Majors Stores (i.e., JC Penny, Nordstrom’s, Dillard’s, Macy’s, also-Wet seal, Tilley’s, Torrid, Belk, Buckle)
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
Head Designer
Pan Global Inc. (Scrapbook – Crafty Junior Division)
06.2009 - 02.2010
- Create concept boards and design a 75pc line every month.
- Source all fabric through both local & domestic vendors
- Design and conceptualize all textile print and graphics. Work with graphic designer on finalizing and designing all art.
- Responsible for line development, sketch to actual production
- Work on all pricing both from domestic cost sheets & import pricing tech packs.
Education
AA - Fashion Design & Merchandising / General Education
THE FASHION CENTER @ LA TRADE TECH COLLEGE
06.1996
Skills
- Exceptional ability to translate trends into product, forward thinker with strong presentation skills with clear and professional manner
- High level of creative energy, combined with strong organizational skills
- Highly motivated, self-starter committed to delivering all projects on time
- Able to meet deadlines and work well in a high energy, demanding and fast paced environment
- Computer skills, knowledge of Microsoft suites, some Photoshop, illustrator, and other various software
- Expert knowledge of garment development process, production procedures, tech packs & specification, private label programs, patterns, construction, and global sourcing
- Experience in creating a vision and leading /mentoring a creative team to final product launch
- Clear understanding of key trends and best sellers
- Detail oriented energetic, multi tasked, and problem-solving capabilities
- Technical hand flat sketches and illustration skills
- Keen eye for fashion, trends and colors
- Dedicated team leader and player
- Sewing techniques
Languages
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Design Director
Isla Maude
06.2023 - Current
Director of Merchandising and Design (CONSULTANT)
Line Apparel
09.2019 - 12.2019
Director of Design and Merchandising
La Mamba Clothing
09.2016 - 04.2017
Director of Design and Merchandising
Paisley Raye Inc.
04.2016 - 09.2019
Director of Design and Merchandising/ Creative Director
LDLA Clothing LLC, (Living Doll)
02.2010 - 07.2016
Head Designer
Pan Global Inc. (Scrapbook – Crafty Junior Division)
06.2009 - 02.2010
Costume Designer – PROJECT BASE
Nak Nek Films (Bentkey Ventures)
AA - Fashion Design & Merchandising / General Education
THE FASHION CENTER @ LA TRADE TECH COLLEGE