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.
