Creative Design Director – Handbags, SLG, Cosmetics, and Gifting
AHQ
07.2019 - 10.2023
Directed the end-to-end design process for handbags, small leather goods (SLG), and cosmetic accessories, overseeing projects from concept to completion
Developed innovative concepts for branded collections and customer-specific private label products, aligning designs with target demographics
Conducted trend research to identify key colors, materials, and silhouettes
Delivered strategic presentations to senior leadership, collaborated with major accounts to deliver trend-forward designs, and partnered with cross-functional teams for seamless execution
Partnered with factories to develop samples for brands including Sam Edelman, French Connection, London Fog, Isaac Mizrahi, Vera New York and Walmart
Provided actionable fashion direction in strategic client meetings, driving innovation and inspiring on-trend designs
Managed the complete product design process from initial concept through delivery
Designed branded collections and customized private label programs
Conducted trend analysis to identify colors, materials, and silhouettes tailored to customer preferences
Delivered strategic insights and collaborated with key accounts to create innovative, on-trend design solutions
Partnered with factories and production teams to create samples for Guess Factory, Franco Sarto, Naturalizer, Payless, and Walmart
Merchandiser/Designer for Koret Handbags and Unionbay Handbags
The Chateau Group
09.2009 - 04.2013
Conducted global market research to understand consumer and category needs
Designed handbag collections and presented trends to major buyers
Traveled internationally to study emerging trends
Designed products featured in Teen Vogue, Marie Claire, Gossip Girl, New York Post, and Today Show’s InStyle segment
Boosted sales growth by delivering affordable, trend-right designs tailored to customer preferences
Vice President, Design
Max Leather/Cipriani
07.2001 - 04.2008
Led brand development for gifts, small leather goods, and packaging
Managed creative teams to develop private label and licensed collections
Traveled to Asia for sourcing and production oversight
Directed timelines, cost negotiations, and financial planning
Launched fashion phone cases for T-Mobile and Motorola and collaborated on licensing projects with Nautica, Calvin Klein, Sean John, Michael Kors, and Nine West
Creative Director
Honey Fashions
01.1996 - 01.2001
Designer
Mitzi International, Ltd.
01.1995 - 01.1996
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Advertising and Packaging Design
Fashion Institute of Technology
New York, NY
Associate of Arts - Advertising Design
Fashion Institute of Technology
New York, NY
Skills
Social media design
Strategic thinking
Print design
Creative vision
Hobbies and Interests
Three-time Ironman and Boston Marathon finisher.
Timeline
Creative Design Director – Handbags, SLG, Cosmetics, and Gifting
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Talent Analyst Intern at Front Runner SportsName, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Talent Analyst Intern at Front Runner Sports