Ellen Picataggio
New York
Summary
Coming from a family background of hospitality that started with a motel on the Las Vegas Strip in the 70's, the dynamic settings that I found myself in were greatly inspiring. Whether it was the bright lights and glamor of Vegas, the majestic nature of the Oregon coast or the being enmeshed in creative hubs of NYC while interning in the family businesses, I quickly learned that people moved through spaces with all their senses, aware or not, and that activating them with a story and curated design could leave them with a greater experience and lasting memories. Now after 20+ years in the hospitality industry, I'd like to be part of a team where I can apply both my creative and administrative skills to be part of a solution that enhances the customer/client's experience.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Brand and Design, Managing Partner
Wilorna Enterprises DBA Farmer's Daughter Hotel
08.1999 - 06.2021
- Planned, implemented and oversaw renovation and re-branding of 60's motel to a modern boutique hotel that doubled revenue in year two.
- Lead coordinator responsible for managing budget, corresponding with bank in regards to construction loan, and overseeing installation by construction and design team during 18 month renovation.
- Conceptualized brand identity and developed unique accompanying graphic style, tone, and deliverables for corporate identity as well as all other customer touchpoints throughout hotel experience.
- Developed innovative marketing campaigns based on unique hotel name that could convey brand qualities and engage community.
- Built strategic relationships that included activation at Coachella for VIP artists and guests. Planned and hosted many on-site events that highlighted art, music, and poetry that served both our local community and also benefited two non-profits that we championed.
- Worked with social media and marketing creatives to further hone and update our presence in social media, newsletters, and PR by evaluating our role in hospitality community of LA as well as our physical neighborhood. High engagement with our community and repeat/loyal customer base was achieved during my tenure.
- Created marketing and amenity deliverables with our in-house graphics designer to create custom and stand-alone products before it became a standard in hospitality.
- Hired and managed many creative collaborators and design contractors for campaigns, events, and renovations. Stayed involved from concept, to installation and through punch list resolution.
Design Director, Partner
Saint Martha Restaurant
02.2014 - 09.2015
- Managed procurement and installation of vintage and custom furnishings to create a lived-in yet eclectically timeless vibe to match Chef's innovative and irreverent menu.
- Oversaw construction work on-site to confirm adherence to design plans.
- Created budgets and architectural options for commercial restaurant space on short timeline and limited budget.
- Consulted with construction contractors, designers, electricians and plumbers to achieve safe and compliant design paradigms.
- Spearheaded development and design of corporate collateral including menu and signage design.
Brand Consultant
UC Berkeley Alumni Association- CAA
12.2012 - 07.2014
- Planned, implemented and sourced materials for re-brand of Pinecrest Chalet retreat owned by CAL Alumni Association .
- Coordinated between Alumni Association team, design and construction team, and Chalet staff to remodel and install model unit as well as consulting on hotel operations of Chalet.
- Conceptualized brand identity and developed unique accompanying graphic style and tone for use in communications.
Director of Operations
WEBEBOP
09.1994 - 07.1999
- Managed production of factories in Indonesia by communicating with individual members of factory as well as coordinating and managing factory representative on-site with 14 hour time difference.
- Worked collaboratively with sales, design, and shipping departments through sample season and then for products to be received and shipped accurately and in timely manner.
- Oversaw tech-packs that were sent to factories as well as shipments and procurement of fabric and accessories for garments that would involved multiple vendors.
- Liaised with buyers to problem-solve product or delivery issues
- Helped grow operations which doubled in staff and revenue during my tenure.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - B.A. Art History, Minor in English Literature
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA08.2021
No Degree - Art History
NYU
New York City08.1989
Skills
- Brand Messaging and Development
- Cross-Departmental Alignment
- Client relations
- Project Management
- Retail Sales and Store Management
- Training Junior Team Members
- Customer service
- Microsoft Office
Timeline
Design Director, Partner
Saint Martha Restaurant
02.2014 - 09.2015
Brand Consultant
UC Berkeley Alumni Association- CAA
12.2012 - 07.2014
Director of Brand and Design, Managing Partner
Wilorna Enterprises DBA Farmer's Daughter Hotel
08.1999 - 06.2021
Director of Operations
WEBEBOP
09.1994 - 07.1999
Bachelor of Arts - B.A. Art History, Minor in English Literature
University of California, Berkeley
No Degree - Art History
NYU
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