Sivakumar Balraj

Pre-Press and Packaging Artwork Specialist with 20+ years of experience across commercial printing, publishing, and FMCG packaging. Strong expertise in pre-flight, reprographics, colour management, and production workflows across Offset, Flexo, Gravure, and Digital printing. Proven ability to deliver high-quality, print-ready artwork aligned with global brand guidelines for major international clients.

Pre-Press & Print Production Specialist at Xpress Print (2023-12 – 2026-03)

Performed end-to-end pre-flight checks and prepared print-ready files for offset, digital, and large-format production

• Performed end-to-end pre-flight checks, including bleed, fonts, colours, resolution, and layout validation
• Prepared print-ready files for offset, digital, and large-format production
• Creating files for scanned images, resizing, Image retouching, recolouring text, and ensuring overall accuracy
• Created technical drawings and production layouts
• Managed imposition, typesetting, and mock-ups for client approval
• Coordinated outsourcing for dielines, stamping, and finishing tools
• Conducted press checks and ensured print quality standards
• Supported variable data printing and machine calibration

Production Repro Artist at Sonoco Trident (2018-01 – 2023-01)

Delivered packaging artwork for global FMCG brands with focus on colour management and brand compliance

• Delivered packaging artwork for global FMCG brands
• Managed colour retouching and GMG proofing for accurate reproduction
• Ensured compliance with brand guidelines and regional requirements
• Standardised artwork including barcodes, legal text, and product information
• Performed reprographics, trapping, and print optimisation
• Archived and maintained production files for reprints

Designer / Image Retoucher at United Graphic (2017-05 – 2018-01)

Digital Publishing / Pre-Press Executive at Markono Print Media (2014-04 – 2017-04)

Graphic Designer / DTP Artist at Fabulous Printers (2012-03 – 2014-03)

Layout Artist at Xpress Print (2010-08 – 2012-03)

Graphic Designer at PNP Network (2009-09 – 2010-05)

Freelancer (Graphic & Artwork) at XVIII Colour Studio (2023-02 – 2023-12)

Pre-Media Executive at Schawk India (2008-05 – 2009-07)

Graphic Designer at Launch PD Advertising (2007-10 – 2008-04)

Artwork Designer at Scientific Publishing Service (2005-10 – 2007-10)

Offset Printer at Shore to Shore MIS (2003-12 – 2005-07)

Pre-Press Trainee at Dinamalar Newspaper Press (2002-07 – 2003-11)

Bachelor of Engineering in Printing Technology – College of Engineering, Guindy, Anna University (2004 – 2008)

Diploma in Printing Technology – Institute of Printing Technology, Guindy (1999 – 2002)

Secondary School Leaving Certificate in General – R.V. Govt Boys Higher Secondary School