Everard Strong

Award-winning creative leader with extensive experience in art direction, brand management, and multi-platform design. Adept at steering creative teams and delivering high-impact campaigns for Fortune 500 companies, startups, and nonprofits. Known for crafting cohesive brand identities, introducing innovative workflows, and delivering exceptional results under tight deadlines. Expertise spans digital, print, experiential, and social media platforms.

Senior Designer - KEADJIAN PUBLIC RELATIONS - Walnut Creek

(2021-09)

Oversaw creative strategies and executions for high-stakes campaigns in a fast-paced public relations environment.

• Designed and executed internal- and public-facing campaigns for a 25,000-person utility company, enhancing engagement across diverse audiences.
• Spearheaded the transformation of static PDFs into interactive, branded experiences, increasing user engagement.
• Introduced efficiencies using tools like Adobe InCopy and Firefly AI, reducing project timelines by 20% (estimated).
• Directed social media campaigns incorporating video and animation to elevate brand visibility.
• Developed internal branding frameworks, including logo redesigns and updated color palettes, ensuring cohesive brand identity.
• Note about work samples: I had to sign a strict NDA and as such, I cannot include current examples in my portfolio.

Creative Director - HELLO!CITY MEDIA - Walnut Creek

(2020-11 - 2021-08)

Directed creative initiatives for a startup interactive city guide, focusing on brand identity and user engagement.

• Led creative direction for a mobile-based city guide app, establishing a distinct brand identity and user-focused design templates.
• Mapped product usability paths to optimize user experience, increasing beta user retention by 25% (estimated).
• Produced investor-facing pitch decks, securing initial funding interest for product development.

Art Director, Corporate Communications - ROBERT HALF INTERNATIONAL - San Ramon

(2014-12 - 2020-07)

Led creative development for global internal communications, delivering impactful campaigns across multiple media platforms.

• Directed global internal corporate communication campaigns across digital, video, print, and environmental design.
• Designed an award-winning employee recognition drive, boosting engagement metrics.
• Mentored a creative team, leading to multiple design awards and increased team productivity.
• Oversaw diversity and inclusion campaigns, fostering enhanced employee participation and dialogue.

Creative Services Manager - OAKLAND ZOO - Oakland

(2011 - 2014)

Managed comprehensive design and marketing strategies to enhance visitor experiences and brand visibility.

• Led design refresh initiatives, including publications, exhibits, wayfinding signage, and digital assets, achieving a 15% increase in visitor satisfaction.
• Designed and launched an interactive website for the California Experience expansion project.
• Managed editorial and layout for quarterly newsletters and experiential signage for exhibits.

BA - Art/Communications - Calvin College