Karen Corcoran

Enthusiastic professional with desire to take on new challenges. Strong work ethic, adaptability and exceptional interpersonal skills with a proven track record in graphic design, product development and project coordination. Adept in Adobe Creative Suite, resourceful and results driven. Highly motivated and has the ability to learn new tasks involved within a new position.

Associate Product Manager - Luminex - Cincinnati, Ohio

(2025-01 - 2026-04)

• Provided critical support for product development across both Candle-lite and PartyLite brands, ensuring smooth execution and coordination across all channels.
• Collaborated with Product Management to facilitate weekly NPD meetings with costing and manufacturing teams.
• Coordinated resources to ensure timely delivery of assigned projects.
• Assigned item numbers and fragrance codes to new products for PartyLite.
• Developed raw material pages and item spec sheets for in-house reference.
• Interfaced with sourcing team to create requests.
• Utilized regulatory information for fragrances to create EU compliant packaging.
• Managed the distribution of samples to clients and stakeholders.
• Proofed Artwork and archived final art / proofs.
• Communicated with print vendors and various other vendors regarding proofs, samples and projects in general.
• Directed end-to-end creation and assembly of customized gift boxes for a fundraising event for Champions for Kids Foundation in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
• Conceptualized and developed labels, sleeves and various packaging for the candle and home decor industry, using Adobe Creative Suite.
• Created prototypes and samples for in-house collaboration and client review, facilitation feedback and refinement of designs.
• Developed PowerPoint presentations on color and product trends, along with new packaging and product concepts, to inform strategic decisions.
• Set up artwork to send to various print vendors for production.
• Reviewed proofs for accuracy and adherence to appropriate production standards.
• Communicated with various vendors for status of projects sent for production.
• Designed web and email banners for Marketing to use for the e-commerce sites.
• Worked alongside Marketing to set up displays of new product lines for the yearly National Sales Meeting.
• Partnered with Chief Merchandising Officer to design office remodels and enhance workspace aesthetics and functionality.
• Created gift baskets with candle products and home decor items for fundraising events.
• Played an active role in the Employee Activity Committee/ Culture Club. Helped plan and coordinate meetings, celebrations and employee incentive activities as well as various volunteer/donation events.
• Mentored new employees in the design department.
• Worked alongside Product Development to create competitive assessments for Walmart.
• Traveled to New York and Atlanta to explore what was on trend in the market at the gift and home shows.

Senior Graphic Designer - Luminex - Cincinnati, Ohio

(2004-07 - 2025-01)

• Developed graphics for custom gift wrap, gift bags, greeting cards and party decor using Adobe based software enhancing client product offerings.
• Coordinated gift wrap designs with complimentary ribbons and decorations, improving overall presentation and customer appeal.
• Set up artwork in repeat as well as on various die lines to go to production.
• Attended gift and print shows to gather insights on design and printing trends, informing future projects and aligning with market designs.
• Traveled to various client locations to review and help with selection of their everyday and holiday product lines. Accounts included Marshall Field's, Frango, Bed Bath & Beyond, Bloomingdale's, Dillard's, Frederick's of Hollywood, HEB, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Kroger (Fred Meyer), Macy's, Petsmart, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, Ralph Lauren, Russell Stover's, Saks, Things Remembered, Walmart and various other retailers.

Senior Graphic Designer - Paperplains/Private Label - Cincinnati, Ohio

(1994-04 - 2004-06)

• Developed graphics for custom gift wrap, gift bags, greeting cards and party decor using Adobe based software enhancing client product offerings.
• Coordinated gift wrap designs with complimentary ribbons and decorations, improving overall presentation and customer appeal.
• Set up artwork in repeat as well as on various die lines to go to production.
• Attended gift and print shows to gather insights on design and printing trends, informing future projects and aligning with market designs.
• Traveled to various client locations to review and help with selection of their everyday and holiday product lines. Accounts included Marshall Field's, Frango, Bed Bath & Beyond, Bloomingdale's, Dillard's, Frederick's of Hollywood, HEB, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Kroger (Fred Meyer), Macy's, Petsmart, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, Ralph Lauren, Russell Stover's, Saks, Things Remembered, Walmart and various other retailers.

Bachelor of Arts - Graphic Design - Art Academy of Cincinnati