Available to hire
Hi, I’m Raya Azar, a product and packaging designer with 9 years of experience in graphic and label design and 4 years of hands-on product making. I excel in Adobe Creative Cloud, 3D modeling, branding, and taking concepts from idea to manufacturing. I led a key rebranding of a paint line that boosted sales by 12% in its first year, and I bring a collaborative, user-centered approach to every project. I studied at the Royal College of Art with a focus on regenerative design, prototyping, and materials, and I’ve worked internationally across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States. I’m committed to creating thoughtful, impactful products that make things happen.
I’m passionate about blending aesthetics with practical production knowledge to deliver solutions that work in the real world, from concept to retail.
Experience Level
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Language
English
Fluent
Arabic
Intermediate
French
Beginner
Work Experience
Freelance Designer at Freelance
September 30, 2020 - PresentMaintained consistently high levels of client satisfaction, reflected in positive feedback and repeat business.
Elevated the visual appeal and market presence of client brands through effective graphic design solutions.
Demonstrated strong project management skills by consistently meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality work within budget constraints.
Showcased creative problem-solving abilities by overcoming design challenges and delivering innovative solutions that exceeded client expectations.
Thrived in a dynamic freelance environment by adapting to various industries, working with diverse brand aesthetics, and incorporating a wide range of design styles.
Collaborated seamlessly with clients, understanding their vision and goals, and translating them into visually compelling and effective design outcomes.
Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning by pursuing new design techniques, attending workshops, and staying up-to-date with the latest design trends.
Woodworker Internship at Selecti Design
July 1, 2023 - August 31, 2023• Hands-On Prototyping: Led the creation of furniture prototypes from concept to reality, refining my woodworking skills and embracing the art of craftsmanship.
• Crafting Excellence: Collaborated with a talented team to master various wood species and intricate joinery techniques, ensuring each piece met the highest standards of form and function.
• Innovative Problem Solver: Navigated design challenges with creativity, developing innovative solutions to bring unique furniture pieces to life.
• Team Collaboration: Engaged in a collaborative environment, working alongside skilled artisans and designers. Learned from diverse perspectives, contributing to my growth in the woodworking field.
This internship at Selecti Design has been a transformative journey, providing not only technical expertise but also a deep appreciation for the intersection of design and craftsmanship.
Snow / Water Sport Instructor at Self - Employed School
March 1, 2014 - August 15, 2021Drove and instructed participants in wakeboarding, slalom skiing, and snowboarding, providing hands-on coaching, safety guidance, and skill development across water and snow sports.
Senior Graphic Designer at City Paints Supply Ltd
September 10, 2018 - October 31, 2020• Developed and maintained a cohesive brand identity across various materials, including brand identities, product labels, social media content, catalogues, logos, and websites.
• Spearheaded the design and innovation of product labels, contributing to increased product visibility and recognition in the market.
• Successfully integrated design elements into multi-channel marketing strategies, ensuring consistency and impact in both digital and print materials.
• Designed calendars and squeeze backs that not only served as promotional tools but also showcased creativity and brand personality.
• Played a pivotal role in the enhancement of the company website, creating an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly online presence.
• Designed impactful signage and stationeries that contributed to a professional and cohesive brand image in physical spaces.
• Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams to gather information and insights, ensuring that design solutions aligned with marketing goals and objectives.
• Maintained a high standard of design quality and consistency, contributing to a positive and recognizable brand image in the market.
• Managed multiple design projects and schedules efficiently, meeting goals and deadlines consistently.
• Stayed abreast of industry trends and technological advancements in design and marketing, integrating innovative approaches into the company’s branding and marketing strategies.
• Provided design support, guidance, and mentorship to junior team members, fostering a collaborative and skill-sharing environment.
Graphic Designer at PSLab
August 7, 2017 - February 28, 2018• created design briefs and action plans for dedicated projects
• presented drafts and prototypes and adjust based on feedback and direction
• reviewed and assessed existing communication and design materials
• coordinated across teams to gather information and data needed
• maintained awareness of industry and technology standards as well as production and material trends
• managed multiple projects and schedules to reach goals and deadlines
• provided design support and direction for teams
• organized and managed our space: archiving, organization, labelling and accessibility
Graphic Design Intern at ceft and company new york
April 30, 2017 - August 30, 2017Assisted the creative team with concept development, visual design, and execution across print and digital platforms.
Contributed to photo retouching, image editing, and layout design for client projects and campaigns.
Conducted research on design trends, visual references, and competitive landscapes to support creative direction.
Helped out with a photoshoot, providing support in set preparation, and post-production editing.
Collaborated closely with senior designers to refine branding, typography, and visual storytelling solutions.
Gained hands-on experience in fast-paced agency workflow, balancing multiple projects while meeting deadlines.
Graphic & Product Designer at Self-employed / Freelance
February 1, 2016 - PresentMaintained consistently high client satisfaction through quality design solutions, repeat business, and positive feedback. Elevated visual appeal and market presence for diverse client brands by delivering effective and creative graphic design services. Demonstrated strong project management by meeting deadlines and managing budgets across multiple projects. Applied creative problem-solving to overcome design challenges, producing innovative solutions that exceeded client expectations. Adapted design approaches to suit various industries and brand aesthetics, showing versatility and broad style range. Collaborated closely with clients to understand their vision and goals, translating ideas into compelling visual outcomes. Pursued continuous professional development by mastering new design techniques, attending workshops, and following industry trends.
Woodworker Intern at Selected Design
August 1, 2023 - September 13, 2025Led hands-on prototyping of furniture, transforming concepts into tangible pieces while honing wood working craft. Collaborated with a skilled team to master diverse wood species and intricate joinery techniques, ensuring top-quality form and function.
Snow / Water Sport Instructor at Self-Employed (Lebanon & Ghana)
August 1, 2021 - September 13, 2025Delivered expert instruction in wakeboarding, slalom skiing, and snowboarding to a variety of skill levels and ages. Provided clear demonstrations and verbal coaching to individuals and groups. Enforced safety protocols and maintained equipment standards. Adapted teaching approaches to meet diverse needs.
Senior Graphic Designer at Azar Group
October 1, 2020 - September 13, 2025Contributed to cohesive branding across product labels, social media, catalogs, logos, and websites. Led product launches with impactful visuals, including packaging labels and mockups, contributing to successful market entries. Elevated marketing materials and increased partner revenue by designing targeted visuals and presentations. Mentored junior design staff and managed multiple projects to meet deadlines.
Graphic Designer at PSLAB
February 1, 2018 - September 13, 2025Developed design briefs and action plans for specialized lighting and design projects. Presented and refined drafts and prototypes based on team and stakeholder feedback. Cohered with industry standards, technology, and production trends.
Graphic Design Intern at Ceftan & Company
August 1, 2017 - September 13, 2025Contributed to design ideation and execution for fashion and luxury brand projects. Assisted in photo retouching, packaging artwork, and mockups. Conducted research on design trends, materials, and production techniques. Reviewed and improved existing brand materials for consistency.
Freelance Graphic & Product Designer at Self-employed (Remote)
February 1, 2016 - PresentMaintained consistently high client satisfaction through quality design solutions, repeat business, and positive feedback. Delivered effective and creative graphic design services, elevating visual appeal and market presence for diverse client brands. Demonstrated strong project management by meeting deadlines and managing budgets across multiple projects. Applied creative problem-solving to overcome design challenges, developing innovative solutions that exceeded client expectations. Adapted design approaches to suit various industries and brand aesthetics, showing versatility. Collaborated closely with clients to understand their vision and goals, translating ideas into compelling visual outcomes. Pursued continuous professional development by mastering new design techniques, attending workshops, and following industry trends.
Woodworker Intern at Selected Design
August 1, 2023 - September 13, 2025Led hands-on prototyping of furniture, transforming concepts into tangible pieces while honing woodworking craft. Collaborated with a skilled team to master diverse wood species and intricate joinery techniques, ensuring high-quality form and function. Solved design challenges creatively, developing innovative furniture solutions tailored to project requirements. Worked closely with artisans and designers in a collaborative environment, gaining diverse perspectives and enhancing outcomes. Gained immersive experience in warehouse production, building home-ready products from scratch alongside expert woodworkers. Deepened technical expertise and cultivated appreciation for the intersection of design and craft through an immersive internship.
Snow / Water Sports Instructor at Self-Employed (Lebanon & Ghana)
August 1, 2021 - September 13, 2025Delivered expert instruction in wakeboarding, slalom skiing, and snowboarding to a diverse range of skill levels and ages. Provided clear demonstrations and verbal coaching to individuals and groups. Enforced safety protocols and maintained equipment standards. Adapted teaching approaches to meet diverse needs.
Senior Graphic Designer at Azar Group
October 1, 2020 - September 13, 2025Contributed to brand development and marketing materials; supported lead generation and customer engagement by creating cohesive brand identities across product labels, social media, catalogs, logos, and websites. Collaborated with business development and marketing to design visuals that improved partner revenue and market presence; created and refined marketing assets. Led branding for a key paint line, achieving improved sales (12% increase) in the first year post-launch and integrated design into multi-channel strategies. Enhanced website aesthetics and usability.
Graphic Designer at PSLAB
February 1, 2018 - September 13, 2025Contributed to brand and packaging design; supported award-winning branding initiatives and export recognition. Developed cohesive brand identities across product labels, social media, catalogs, logos, and websites. Created impactful visuals for product launches, including packaging labels and mock-ups, boosting online and offline engagement.
Graphic Design Internship at Ceftan d Company
August 1, 2017 - September 13, 2025Contributed to design ideation and execution for fashion and luxury brand projects. Assisted with photo retouching, packaging artwork, and mock-ups. Researched design trends, materials, and production techniques. Reviewed and improved existing communications and design materials for brand consistency; coordinated with cross-functional teams; managed multiple design tasks to meet deadlines; supported design direction.
Freelancing Graphic & Product Designer at Self-employed
February 1, 2016 - PresentMaintained consistently high client satisfaction through quality design solutions, repeat business, and positive feedback. Elevated visual appeal and market presence for diverse client brands by delivering effective graphics and packaging; demonstrated strong project management across multiple projects.
Woodworker Intern at Select Design
August 1, 2023 - September 13, 2025Led hands-on prototyping of furniture, transforming concepts into tangible pieces while honing woodworking craftsmanship. Collaborated with a skilled team to master diverse wood species and intricate joinery techniques, ensuring top-quality form and function.
Snow / WaterSport Instructor at Self-employed
August 1, 2021 - September 13, 2025Delivered expert instruction in wakeboarding, slalom skiing, and snowboard riding to a variety of skill levels and ages. Provided clear demonstrations and coaching, enforced safety protocols, and maintained equipment standards.
Graphic Designer at Adville Advertising
May 1, 2021 - September 13, 2025Led graphic design initiatives at a dynamic advertising agency specializing in brand development and campaign management. Built cohesive marketing materials and contributed to increased brand awareness and client engagement.
Senior Graphic Designer at Azar Group
October 1, 2020 - September 13, 2025Contributed to winning Best Paint Brand of the Year at the 5th Ghana International Products Awards. Supported export recognition, developed cohesive brand identities across product labels and marketing materials, and led rebranding efforts.
Graphic Designer at PSLAB
February 1, 2018 - September 13, 2025Contributed to design briefs, refined drafts and prototypes, and ensured quality and consistency across materials. Coordinated cross-functional teams and adhered to industry standards, technology, and production trends.
Graphic Design Intern at Cef tan d Company
August 1, 2017 - September 13, 2025Contributed to fashion and luxury brand projects, assisted in photo retouching, packaging artwork, and mock-ups. Researched design trends and ensured consistency across communications.
Freelance Graphic & Product Designer at Self-employed / Freelancing
February 1, 2016 - PresentRemote freelance practice delivering graphic and product design, focusing on branding, packaging, and product development; manages multiple projects, meets deadlines, and maintains client satisfaction.
Woodworker Intern at Selecti Design
August 31, 2023 - September 13, 2025Led hands-on prototyping of furniture, collaborating with a team to translate concepts into tangible pieces, mastering joinery and wood species; contributed to warehouse production.
Snow / WaterSport Instructor at Self-Employed
August 1, 2021 - September 13, 2025Provided wakeboarding, slalom skiing, and snowboarding instruction to varied ages and skill levels; ensured safety and equipment standards.
Graphic Designer at Adville Advertising
May 31, 2021 - September 13, 2025Led graphic design initiatives for brand development and campaigns; designed packaging labels, visuals, and marketing materials; contributed to product launches and brand storytelling.
Senior Graphic Designer at Azar Group
October 31, 2020 - September 13, 2025Maintained cohesive brand identities across product labels, social media, catalogs, logos, and websites; supported export recognition and market expansion; led rebranding efforts and marketing materials.
Graphic Designer at PSLAB
February 28, 2018 - September 13, 2025Contributed to brand identity and design projects; prepared lighting and design materials; coordinated with teams to deliver quality collateral.
Graphic Design Internship at Ceft and Company
August 31, 2017 - September 13, 2025Supported fashion and luxury branding projects, assisted with photo retouching, packaging artwork, and mockups; conducted trend research and cross-functional collaboration.
Freelance Graphic & Product Designer at Self-employed / Remote
February 1, 2016 - PresentFreelance designer delivering graphic and packaging design, branding, and product development for a diverse client base. Managed deadlines and budgets, translated client visions into compelling visuals and prototypes, and pursued ongoing professional development to stay ahead of industry trends.
Woodworker Intern at Selecti Design
August 31, 2023 - September 13, 2025Led hands-on prototyping of furniture, transforming concepts into tangible pieces. Collaborated with a skilled team to master diverse wood species and joinery techniques, solved design challenges, and built home-ready products in a warehouse setting.
Snow / WaterSport Instructor at Self-Employed
August 31, 2021 - September 13, 2025Delivered wakeboarding, slalom skiing, and snowboarding instruction to a range of ages and skill levels. Provided demonstrations and coaching, enforced safety protocols, and adapted teaching approaches to diverse learners.
Graphic Designer at Adville Advertising
May 31, 2021 - September 13, 2025Led graphic design initiatives for brand development and campaigns. Maintained brand consistency across platforms, designed packaging labels and mockups for product launches, produced promotional photography, and crafted social media content to boost engagement.
Senior Graphic Designer at Azar Group
October 31, 2020 - September 13, 2025Developed and maintained cohesive brand identities across product labels, social media, catalogs, logos, and websites. Collaborated with marketing to support lead generation, led a complete rebranding of a key paint line (12% sales growth in the first year), and improved partner revenue through targeted visuals and presentations.
Graphic Designer at PSLAB
February 28, 2018 - September 13, 2025Contributed to award-winning campaigns, developed design briefs, refined prototypes, and ensured quality and consistency across materials. Coordinated cross-functional teams to support design development and kept current with industry trends.
Graphic Design Internship at Ceft and Company
August 31, 2017 - September 13, 2025Supported fashion and luxury brand projects with ideation, photo retouching, packaging artwork, and mockups. Researched trends and production techniques, coordinated with cross-functional teams, and assisted with design direction.
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design at American University of Beirut
September 10, 2012 - June 30, 2018The Graphic Design program focused on developing my skills in visual communication, typography, layout design, branding, and other graphic design principles. I learned to use various design software and tools, and gained hands-on experience in creating design solutions for real-world projects. The curriculum also included courses in art history, design theory, and critical thinking, providing me with a well-rounded education. I had access to modern design studios and resources, and was mentored by experienced faculty who guided me in honing my design skills and developing my design portfolio. Upon completion of the program, I was equipped with a solid foundation in graphic design, ready to pursue a career in the field or further my studies in design.
Master's Degree in Design Products at Royal College of Art
September 20, 2021 - July 18, 2023During my time at the Royal College of Art (RCA), as part of the Master's in Design Products program, I gained advanced design education that emphasized innovation, experimentation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I had the opportunity to explore new design methodologies, challenge conventional design norms, and collaborate with diverse partners. Through workshops, seminars, lectures, and industry projects, I developed practical skills and gained real-world experience. I also had access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support my design projects and research. I have acquired a deep understanding of design theory and practice, advanced design skills, and the ability to critically evaluate my work, preparing me for careers in various design fields.
MA in Design Products at Royal College of Art
September 1, 2021 - July 1, 2023BA in Graphic Design at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 1, 2018Minor in Fine Arts at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 1, 2018MA in Design Products at Royal College of Art
September 1, 2021 - July 1, 2023BA in Graphic Design at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 1, 2018Minor in Fine Arts at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 1, 2018MA in Design Products at Royal College of Art
September 1, 2021 - July 1, 2023BA in Graphic Design at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 1, 2018Minor in Fine Arts at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 1, 2018Master of Arts in Design Products at Royal College of Art
September 1, 2021 - July 1, 2023Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 1, 2018Minor in Fine Arts at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 1, 2018MA in Design Products at Royal College of Art
September 1, 2021 - July 31, 2023BA in Graphic Design at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 30, 2018Minor in Fine Arts at American University of Beirut
September 1, 2012 - June 30, 2018Qualifications
Best Paint Brand of the Year (Shield Acrylic Paint) - Ghana International Products Awards
January 11, 2030 - September 13, 2025Presidential Award for Achievements in Exports (2019)
January 11, 2030 - September 13, 2025Presidential Award for Achievements in Exports (2020)
January 11, 2030 - September 13, 2025Lebanese Wakeboard Championship - 1st Place
August 1, 2019 - September 13, 2025Lebanese Women Snowboarding Championship - 1st Place
February 1, 2017 - September 13, 2025Middle Eastern Open Women Wakeboarding Championship - 1st Place
July 1, 2013 - September 13, 2025Industry Experience
Wholesale & Distribution, Real Estate & Construction, Manufacturing, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Consumer Goods, Education, Retail, Other
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