As Design Director, I translate trend insights and brand DNA into innovative product lines across concept design, branding, and end-to-end manufacturing. I blend creative vision with market analysis to drive products that balance originality with commercial success, shaping brand equity and growth across global markets. With hands-on experience across branding, go-to-market strategies, and factory collaboration, I lead cross-functional teams from ideation to production, delivering sustainable design outcomes. I’m fluent in both creative and technical tools, enabling me to connect big-picture strategy with execution and tangible results.

Mary Harris

As Design Director, I translate trend insights and brand DNA into innovative product lines across concept design, branding, and end-to-end manufacturing. I blend creative vision with market analysis to drive products that balance originality with commercial success, shaping brand equity and growth across global markets. With hands-on experience across branding, go-to-market strategies, and factory collaboration, I lead cross-functional teams from ideation to production, delivering sustainable design outcomes. I’m fluent in both creative and technical tools, enabling me to connect big-picture strategy with execution and tangible results.

Available to hire

As Design Director, I translate trend insights and brand DNA into innovative product lines across concept design, branding, and end-to-end manufacturing. I blend creative vision with market analysis to drive products that balance originality with commercial success, shaping brand equity and growth across global markets. With hands-on experience across branding, go-to-market strategies, and factory collaboration, I lead cross-functional teams from ideation to production, delivering sustainable design outcomes. I’m fluent in both creative and technical tools, enabling me to connect big-picture strategy with execution and tangible results.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Design Director at Verge Creative Group
January 1, 2020 - May 31, 2025
Managed the Design team to curate and develop product concepts across retail and promotional divisions for both company-owned and client brands. Collaborated cross-functionally with Sales and Marketing Teams to consult clients on brand stories and offer design and rebranding solutions. Implemented systems to integrate overseas and New York offices for clearer communication and efficiency. Maintained multiple priority projects and development calendars to meet deadlines. Identified trend, color, silhouette, material, and key market shifts within accessories, beauty, and lifestyle categories to ensure product relevance, emotional engagement, and sales driving.
Senior Designer at Karl Lagerfeld
August 1, 2018 - January 31, 2020
Provided creative direction and led product design and development for Wholesale, Retail and OP products. Ensured alignment of materials, details, and construction to create products meeting business needs while maintaining margins and value proposition. Implemented systems and procedures to facilitate efficient design process flow to landed product. Collaborated with Shoe and Apparel teams to create cohesive collections. Managed and cultivated assistant designers’ technical, creative, and professional skills.
Senior Designer & Consultant at Envisage Group
October 1, 2016 - August 31, 2018
Designer at Steve Madden
August 1, 2013 - October 31, 2016
Assistant Designer at Nine West
January 1, 2012 - August 31, 2013

Education

Bachelor of Science, Apparel & Textile Design at University of Wisconsin-Madison
September 1, 2005 - April 1, 2009
Associates, Accessories Design at FIT
August 1, 2010 - April 1, 2011

Qualifications

UX/UI Design Certificate
January 1, 2023 - January 31, 2023

Industry Experience

Retail, Wholesale & Distribution, Consumer Goods, Professional Services, Manufacturing, Media & Entertainment
    uniE621 Sephora (2020 - Present)
    Since 2020, I’ve partnered with Sephora to bring their brand to life through thoughtfully designed products and gift-with-purchase experiences. Each piece was created to spark delight — whether as part of a seasonal activation, a customer loyalty reward, or everyday brand merchandise. From concept to final product, the goal was always the same: to craft memorable moments that connect customers more deeply with Sephora and make them feel part of something special.
    uniE621 Work Examples
    A collection of products and gift-with-purchase items designed for leading brands, supporting both seasonal marketing activations and ongoing merchandise programs. Each project balances creative concept development with practical production requirements, delivering unique brand experiences that engage customers, reinforce identity, and drive campaign impact.