Home of Web & Graphic Designer Matt Hakes
Work
Experience
Signs 4 Fun | Graphic Designer/Artist
2017 - 2023
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Directed the complete development process for diverse materials, including metal signs, stickers, and magnets, from initial customer concepts to final production, for high-profile clients such as Universal Studios and Bowlin's Travel Centers, as well as smaller souvenir shops.
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Independently designed and launched new stock items to broaden and enrich the product line, significantly contributing to business expansion and customer engagement.
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Spearheaded the research and introduction of new product lines, such as magnets, stickers, and enamel pins, ensuring alignment with current market trends and consumer demands.
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Enhanced production workflows, streamlining the design process and reducing production time, which improved overall operational efficiency.
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Created impactful marketing materials including promotional flyers, monthly newsletters, and annual catalogs, boosting brand visibility and strengthening market presence.
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Captured and curated high-quality product photography, effectively utilizing images for online platforms, catalogs, and magazines to increase product visibility and drive sales.
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Produced cohesive and high-quality collateral for both print and digital platforms, maintaining brand consistency across various media and touchpoints.
Graphique Creative | Graphic & Web Designer
2010 - 2017
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Designed, developed, and launched a variety of websites for businesses, clubs, and non-profit organizations, showcasing expertise across multiple industries and achieving successful outcomes.
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Managed and maintained over 30 concurrent websites, ensuring their seamless functionality through timely updates, proactive troubleshooting, and optimal user experience.
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Oversaw front-end functionality on live websites, implementing updates and enhancements to preserve design integrity and boost user engagement.
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Adapted to various client environments, working with technologies ranging from HTML to WordPress, demonstrating versatility and proficiency with diverse platforms and resources.
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Led projects from start to finish, collaborating closely with a small team to ensure alignment with client objectives and successful website launches.
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Conducted in-depth training sessions for clients on Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress, Business Catalyst, and PageLime, empowering them to manage and update their websites independently.
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Leveraged advanced Photoshop and Illustrator skills to create custom graphics and icons, enhancing website visual appeal and brand representation.
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Coordinated and managed product photography, either capturing images personally or working with photographers, and edited photos to ensure a cohesive and professional visual presentation for both websites and print materials.
Education
Art Institute of Phoenix
Bachelor of Arts | Graphic Design
2008 - 2011
Northern Arizona University
Bachelor of Science | Secondary Education
2002 - 2007