I’m a Visual Communication graduate with an unconventional route into the creative industry. Before studying design, I worked in construction for five years, gaining hands-on problem-solving and the ability to stay calm under pressure. I’ve learned to communicate clearly with clients and colleagues, which helps me translate ideas into clear, tangible visuals. I blend creative thinking with a practical mindset to deliver visuals that are not only engaging but meaningful for my client and audience. I’ve developed branding, campaign design, photography and storytelling skills across projects for small businesses, charities and events, and I’m excited to contribute fresh ideas within a collaborative team.

John Smith

I’m a Visual Communication graduate with an unconventional route into the creative industry. Before studying design, I worked in construction for five years, gaining hands-on problem-solving and the ability to stay calm under pressure. I’ve learned to communicate clearly with clients and colleagues, which helps me translate ideas into clear, tangible visuals. I blend creative thinking with a practical mindset to deliver visuals that are not only engaging but meaningful for my client and audience. I’ve developed branding, campaign design, photography and storytelling skills across projects for small businesses, charities and events, and I’m excited to contribute fresh ideas within a collaborative team.

Available to hire

I’m a Visual Communication graduate with an unconventional route into the creative industry. Before studying design, I worked in construction for five years, gaining hands-on problem-solving and the ability to stay calm under pressure. I’ve learned to communicate clearly with clients and colleagues, which helps me translate ideas into clear, tangible visuals.

I blend creative thinking with a practical mindset to deliver visuals that are not only engaging but meaningful for my client and audience. I’ve developed branding, campaign design, photography and storytelling skills across projects for small businesses, charities and events, and I’m excited to contribute fresh ideas within a collaborative team.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Freelance Graphic Designer at John Smith studios
September 1, 2022 - Present
Delivered complete brand identities for local businesses, designed logos, colour palettes, business cards, social media assets and brand guidelines; strategised client messaging and managed projects from initial consultation through to final delivery with professional communication.
Senior Designer's Assistant at Hampshire Design Studios
June 1, 2022 - Present
Supported the delivery of client projects across print and digital media; helped create artwork for charity event banners, motocross bike graphics and promotional materials; collaborated with the Art Director to interpret briefs, develop concepts and prepare production-ready artwork; built a strong foundation in Adobe Creative Suite and adapting designs across formats; applied graphics to race cars, motorbikes, commercial vehicles, shop windows and pub signs; operated a T-shirt press.
Barista at Starbucks Bournemouth
October 1, 2024 - February 1, 2022
Gained experience working under pressure in a fast-paced environment, delivering customer service, maintaining standards and developing adaptability, communication and time-management skills.
General Builder/ Skilled Labourer at Coleman Constructions
October 1, 2018 - September 1, 2022
Worked across building sites along the South Coast, gaining hands-on experience in groundwork, carpentry, plastering and roofing; developed reliability and problem-solving, and learned to manage tools and equipment; maintained strong customer relationships.
Customer Assistant at Morrisons
March 1, 2020 - September 1, 2020
Handled stock replenishment, checkouts and customer support in a high-pressure retail environment; worked as part of a team, developing communication and organisational skills and ensuring customer safety during COVID-19.
Front of House Staff at Kassia
July 1, 2017 - September 1, 2018
Worked as part of a close-knit team in a fast-paced restaurant, taking orders, serving drinks, handling payments and resolving customer issues while maintaining cleanliness and organisation.

Education

GCSE at Horndean Technology College
September 1, 2012 - May 1, 2017
GCSE in Mathematics at HSDC Havant Campus
September 1, 2022 - May 1, 2023
Art and Design - Distinction* in UAL Level 3/4 Foundation Diploma (Pre Degree) at HSDC Southdown's College
September 1, 2022 - May 1, 2023

Qualifications

CSCS card
January 11, 2030 - June 26, 2026
Driving Licence
October 1, 2022 - June 26, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Retail, Education, Other