Hi, I’m Ciara Mulvey, a graphic designer focused on branding, illustration, and visual storytelling. I combine a research-led approach with hands-on experience in commercial brand design, packaging, and digital content creation. With an MA in Graphic Design & Art Direction and a background in UX, I bring conceptual thinking, technical skill, and a collaborative mindset to every project. I’m particularly motivated by work that blends creativity with strategy, and I thrive in environments where design, storytelling, and user experience intersect.

Ciara Mulvey

Hi, I’m Ciara Mulvey, a graphic designer focused on branding, illustration, and visual storytelling. I combine a research-led approach with hands-on experience in commercial brand design, packaging, and digital content creation. With an MA in Graphic Design & Art Direction and a background in UX, I bring conceptual thinking, technical skill, and a collaborative mindset to every project. I’m particularly motivated by work that blends creativity with strategy, and I thrive in environments where design, storytelling, and user experience intersect.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Ciara Mulvey, a graphic designer focused on branding, illustration, and visual storytelling. I combine a research-led approach with hands-on experience in commercial brand design, packaging, and digital content creation.
With an MA in Graphic Design & Art Direction and a background in UX, I bring conceptual thinking, technical skill, and a collaborative mindset to every project. I’m particularly motivated by work that blends creativity with strategy, and I thrive in environments where design, storytelling, and user experience intersect.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Digital Design Intern at Vertical Gallery Commissioning Programme, Manchester Met
July 31, 2025 - September 3, 2025
Created print and digital assets for the Undergraduate Degree Show booklet and promotional materials. Supported the rebranding of Vertical Gallery by contributing logo concepts, digital graphics, and visual identity suggestions. Collaborated with shortlisted students on artist statements and exhibition labels to enhance visual storytelling and cohesion. Designed social media content, layouts, and user-focused materials across channels. Worked closely with curators, support managers, and technical teams in a fast-paced, student-focused creative environment.
Customer Service Advisor at Suits Me Ltd (Fintech)
December 1, 2023 - Present
Handled customer queries across live chat, phone, and email with empathy and efficiency. Gained insight into digital financial products and translated complex information clearly for customers.
Marketing Designer at Optimman
June 30, 2021 - September 3, 2025
Developed brand identity through logo design, promotional graphics, and a responsive WordPress website. Designed and scheduled social media campaigns that increased engagement across platforms. Managed visual assets, improving user experience and consistency across digital channels. Utilized Adobe Creative Suite and CMS tools to deliver B2B marketing solutions tailored to company goals.
Trainee Maths Teacher at The Discovery Academy
April 30, 2022 - September 3, 2025
Designed engaging classroom materials and visual aids to support student learning. Developed strong communication and problem-solving skills through lesson planning and feedback sessions.
Sales Consultant at Next Plc
December 31, 2023 - September 3, 2025
Supported visual merchandising during seasonal store updates and campaign launches. Developed a strong understanding of brand presentation and customer interaction.
Graduate Brand & Artworking Assistant at Ultimate Products (PLC)
October 1, 2025 - Present
Create and maintain branded visual content for packaging, e-commerce listings, and marketing materials across multiple household brands. Edit and retouch high-resolution imagery, producing 3D product renders and print-ready artwork using the Adobe Creative Suite. Typeset and prepare instruction manuals and print assets, ensuring accuracy and brand consistency. Participate in a structured graduate development programme with ongoing mentoring and design training. Work across brands including Salter, Beldray, and Russell Hobbs, gaining experience in large-scale commercial design and brand management.
Digital Design Intern at Vertical Gallery Commissioning Programme
May 1, 2025 - July 31, 2025
Designed print and digital assets for the Undergraduate Degree Show booklet and promotional materials. Contributed to the rebrand of Vertical Gallery through logo concepts, digital graphics, and visual identity proposals. Collaborated with shortlisted students to refine artist statements and exhibition labels, improving clarity and visual cohesion. Produced social media content and layouts tailored to user needs across multiple channels. Worked closely with curators, support managers, and technical teams in a fast-paced creative environment.
Customer Service Advisor at Suits Me Ltd
December 1, 2023 - August 31, 2025
Resolved customer queries across live chat, phone, and email with clarity and empathy. Developed an understanding of digital financial products and communicated complex information in accessible ways.
Sales Consultant at Next Plc
June 1, 2022 - December 31, 2023
Supported visual merchandising during seasonal updates and campaign launches. Strengthened brand presentation skills through customer interaction and in-store styling.
Trainee Maths Teacher at The Discovery Academy
September 1, 2021 - April 30, 2022
Designed engaging classroom materials and visual aids to support student learning. Built strong communication and problem-solving skills through lesson planning and feedback sessions.

Education

MA Graphic Design & Art Direction at Manchester Metropolitan University
September 1, 2024 - August 31, 2025
Postgraduate Certificate in User Experience Design at Falmouth University
September 1, 2023 - May 31, 2024
Professional Diploma in UX Design at UX Design Institute (accredited by Glasgow Caledonian University)
September 1, 2022 - August 31, 2023
BSc (Hons) Economics with Finance at Ulster University
September 1, 2016 - June 30, 2020
MA Graphic Design & Art Direction (Distinction) at Manchester Metropolitan University
September 1, 2024 - August 31, 2025
Postgraduate Certificate in User Experience Design at Falmouth University
September 1, 2023 - May 31, 2024
Professional Diploma in UX Design at UX Design Institute (accredited by Glasgow Caledonian University)
September 1, 2022 - August 31, 2023
BSc (Hons) Economics with Finance (2:1) at Ulster University
September 1, 2016 - June 30, 2020

Qualifications

Professional Diploma in UX Design
September 1, 2022 - August 31, 2023
Dean’s Honours List (1st & 2nd Year)
January 11, 2030 - May 13, 2026
CIMA Ireland Excellence Award
January 11, 2030 - May 13, 2026

Industry Experience

Education, Financial Services, Media & Entertainment, Retail, Software & Internet, Professional Services
    uniE621 Smells Like Team Spirit
    A large-scale design project celebrating women’s rugby, blending sport, activism, and community pride into a cohesive visual identity. The aim was to create a unifying design language that could amplify the sport’s visibility while challenging persistent gender stereotypes. graphicdesigner designer branding rugby feminism
    paper Smells Like Team Spirit

    A large-scale design project celebrating women’s rugby, blending sport, activism, and community pride into a cohesive visual identity. The aim was to create a unifying design language that could amplify the sport’s visibility while challenging persistent gender stereotypes.

    This project brought together multiple strands of my practice, including posters, screen prints, logo development, and merchandise design. Inspired by feminist visual culture and my own experience as a player, I developed a bold typographic system and a palette that combined high-energy sport aesthetics with the visual punch of protest graphics. Elements from other rugby-related projects, such as Women at Play and Not Just Women’s Rugby, were integrated into the identity, creating a flexible, layered brand. Real-world feedback from my rugby community shaped refinements to both visuals and tone.