Senior Art Director
"If you’re looking for someone who can turn a line of copy into a concept, or make a banner ad come to life, or solve a layout issue in five minutes that no one else could in five days, or create a logo from a half-thought on a bar napkin, or turn an email into a Clio Award, or make a client’s Frankenstein look like Brad Pitt…well then, you are going to have to look somewhere else…Publicis-Hawkeye can’t afford to lose Matt."
- Ajay/Copywriter
About
As a Senior Art Director, I produce a wide array of digital and print work which is thoughtfully designed to drive engagement. I love to provide creative solutions, and have done just that for clients such as: Samsung, Allstate, Bank of America, Capital One, Gatorade, Men’s Health, Terminix, VHA, Thomas & Gray, Wells Fargo, American Airlines Cargo, Silver Sea, TMobile, Thyssenkrupp Americas and more. I handle a large workload fast and efficiently, and I’ve never missed a deadline.
Experience
Senior Art Director, Cheil — 2021–Present
In April 2021, I began my role as the Senior Art Director for the NCME team. NCME = New Computing/Mobile Enhancements. We create work across all of Samsung’s computers, tablets, ear buds and smart watches. It has been amazing working closely with Samsung to create the visuals and messaging that is used across North America. Everyday, we create toolkits, videos, icons, key visuals, and a variety of digital assets across these products.
As the Senior Art Director, I am the design lead for this team. I am a hands on designer but also am responsible for reviewals/approvals of work created by by our studio team as well as outside vendors. Another of my priorities has been mentoring other ADs and Jr ADs on the team. I pride myself on always sharing knowledge and being available.
I am so happy to be part of this talented team, and also to collaborate with other teams in the agency like our HHP, CRM and B2B teams.
Senior Art Director, Hawkeye — 2017–2021
I began my Senior role as the design lead for the Allstate client, and managed 30+ open projects at a time. The consistency and quality of the projects grew this account from a single email project. I went on to work under the FCA brand, leading projects for RAM and Dodge. After this, I became part of USAA team, producing a wide variety of projects including video, email, social, direct mail and digital display. I was also honored during this time, that my design was chosen for USAA’s credit card redesign. It was one out of a staggering amount of design concepts put forth by many creative directors, ACDS and Senior Art Directors.
Art Director, Hawkeye — 2012–2017
Throughout my time as an Art Director, I have worked on a variety of projects for many well known clients. I gained a lot
of experience and confidence, and learned how to create anything from banner ads to concert stage signage. The quality of my work, reliability, and my ability to work without supervison led to my promotion to Senior Art Director.
Studio Artist, Hawkeye — 2011-2012
As a studio artist, I managed a wide array of print projects including direct mail, brochures, packaging, and signage. I created files which were mechanically correct, and print ready. I was also given design opportunities, which I excelled at and was promoted to Art Director.
Lead Designer, Thomas & Gray — 2009-2012
Thomas & Gray, was an emerging luxury furniture company, until it was acquired in 2012. I was the design lead on a variety of print and digital projects, reporting directly to the CEO.
Education
Master of Fine Arts – SUNY at Albany
2006-2009
Bachelor of Fine Arts- University of North Texas
2001-2006