Ward G. Smith
Saint Petersburg,FL
Summary
Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director at THE OFF-CENTRAL PLAYERS. Successfully produced over 30 theatrical works, fostering creative partnerships and enhancing relationships with artists, playwrights, and stakeholders. Recognized for innovative artistic vision and strong leadership, driving community engagement and outreach initiatives. He is dedicated and adaptable professional with a proactive attitude, and the ability to learn quickly. Possesses strong work ethic and effective communication skills. Eager to contribute to a dynamic team, and support organizational goals.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Co-Founder / Producing Artistic Director
THE OFF-CENTRAL PLAYERS
Saint Petersburg, USA
01.2021 - Current
- Combined artistic vision with managerial skills by selecting seasons material, overseeing productions, managing budgets, and representing the organization, while also directing or producing over thirty (30) shows to date
- Developed and implemented the company's artistic vision and mission
- Selected the season's repertoire, ensuring artistic coherence and relevance
- Read and select scripts, commission new works, and cultivate relationships with playwrights
- Appeared in and directed or produced productions and oversee the work of other directors
- Lead the artistic team, including directors, designers, actors, and other creative personnel
- Hired and supervised artistic staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment
- Managed the company's budgets, securing funding and sponsorship
- Represented the company to the public, media, and stakeholders
- Develop and implement long-term strategic plans for the organization
- Worked with the Managing Director and Executive Director on budgeting, fundraising, and financial planning
- Oversaw the administrative aspects of productions, including scheduling, venue management, and marketing
- Ensured the efficient and effective operation of the theatre company
- Cultivated relationships with patrons, sponsors, and community organizations
- Promoted the theatre company's work and mission within the community
- Developed and implemented educational and outreach programs
Project Specialist
MERIDIAN ASSEST SERVICES/SITUSAMC
St. Petersburg, USA
01.2014 - 10.2020
- Provide Collateral and Title Curative Services-Diligence and Title Reviews-Property Value Recons-REO Asset Management-Online BPO Orders
- Proficient with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
Senior Copy Editor Subject Matter Expert
JACOBS TECHNOLOGY/ LOCKHEED MARTIN
Tampa, USA
06.2007 - 06.2010
- Created and produced secure strategic and tactical communications for the PSYOP/SOF communities deployed to fight the Global War of Terror
- Exceptional attention to detail and ability to follow established document standards
- Developed professional and creative workflows, organizational charts, presentations, and graphic illustrations
- Provided prompt turnaround of documentation to consistently meet all required deadlines
- Excellent organization skills
- Recognized by USSOCOM Commander Admiral Eric Olsen for creating effective influence communications vital to the support of SOF operations and missions
Creative Director
CARTER AUTOMOTIVE ADVERTISING
Tampa, USA
12.2003 - 08.2007
- Managed and coordinated all copy and production of television and radio spots for clients in retail automotive industry
- Broadcast TV & Infomercial campaign development for 15 auto dealers across the US - Maintain corporate compliance with regards to all content in broadcast copy
Associate Creative Director
CHENOWETH & FAULKNER
Tampa, USA
01.2001 - 01.2003
- Manage and coordinate production of television and radio spots for clients in retail automotive industry
- Consult with clients to create project vision
- Oversee projects from concept to completion
- Produce, write, and direct live presentations for clients and agency
- Research production facilities and negotiate appropriate costs
- Develop production cost estimates
- Hire voice and on-camera talent
- Effectively establish and prioritize workflow
- Develop print advertisements, collateral, and direct mail pieces
- Clients include: Rocky Mt
- Acura, Lithia Automotive, Metro
- Successfully produced and delivered over 55 radio and television spots for key clients
- Participated in launch of Victory Lofts provided art copy and design and The Yucatan Express by developing and executing targeted print ads, direct mail and marketing collateral
Senior Copywriter
FKQ ADVERTISING
Clearwater, USA
01.1998 - 01.2001
- Responsible for writing, editing, and managing content for print, electronic formats, and radio and television broadcasts
- Developed creative concepts based on client goals and requirements
- Collaborated with Creative team to ensure client objectives and timelines were met
- Worked on multiple concurrent projects with limited budgets
- Clients included: Melitta USA, Dollar Rent-A-Car Florida, Hops, McDonald’s (Tampa Bay), Don Olson Tire, The Tampa Bay Lightning, ZD Integrated, the St
- Petersburg/Clearwater CVB, and others
Skills
- Artistic direction
- Budget management
- Production oversight
- Strategic planning
- Script analysis
- Fundraising strategies
- Team leadership
- Creative collaboration
- Problem solving
- Relationship building
- Talent recruitment and acquisition
- Project management
- Performance benchmarking
- Mission and vision development
- Planning and coordination
- Conflict resolution
- Innovation and visioning
- Effective communication and public speaking
- Revenue stream development
Education
Univ. Stuttgart, Central Texas Christian, Johnson & Wales University (US Army), Arizona State University, St. Petersburg College, US Army, Honorable Discharge, Member Screen Actors Guild
Timeline
Co-Founder / Producing Artistic Director
THE OFF-CENTRAL PLAYERS
01.2021 - Current
Project Specialist
MERIDIAN ASSEST SERVICES/SITUSAMC
01.2014 - 10.2020
Senior Copy Editor Subject Matter Expert
JACOBS TECHNOLOGY/ LOCKHEED MARTIN
06.2007 - 06.2010
Creative Director
CARTER AUTOMOTIVE ADVERTISING
12.2003 - 08.2007
Associate Creative Director
CHENOWETH & FAULKNER
01.2001 - 01.2003
Senior Copywriter
FKQ ADVERTISING
01.1998 - 01.2001
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