I'm Martin Hickson, a highly creative and versatile Graphic Designer and Branding Specialist with over 30 years of experience helping global brands and local startups alike. I craft clear, impact-driven brand identities and print, web, packaging and social content that resonate across channels. I thrive on turning briefs into on-brief solutions through hands-on design leadership and a collaborative approach. I bring a wide range of production and creative skills, from concept through to delivery, and I enjoy mentoring teams, directing shoots, and shaping marketing campaigns. I'm continuously learning new tools and trends to keep brands relevant and compelling, while maintaining a fast, accurate work pace and a positive, team-focused attitude.

Martin Hickson

I'm Martin Hickson, a highly creative and versatile Graphic Designer and Branding Specialist with over 30 years of experience helping global brands and local startups alike. I craft clear, impact-driven brand identities and print, web, packaging and social content that resonate across channels. I thrive on turning briefs into on-brief solutions through hands-on design leadership and a collaborative approach. I bring a wide range of production and creative skills, from concept through to delivery, and I enjoy mentoring teams, directing shoots, and shaping marketing campaigns. I'm continuously learning new tools and trends to keep brands relevant and compelling, while maintaining a fast, accurate work pace and a positive, team-focused attitude.

Available to hire

I’m Martin Hickson, a highly creative and versatile Graphic Designer and Branding Specialist with over 30 years of experience helping global brands and local startups alike. I craft clear, impact-driven brand identities and print, web, packaging and social content that resonate across channels. I thrive on turning briefs into on-brief solutions through hands-on design leadership and a collaborative approach.

I bring a wide range of production and creative skills, from concept through to delivery, and I enjoy mentoring teams, directing shoots, and shaping marketing campaigns. I’m continuously learning new tools and trends to keep brands relevant and compelling, while maintaining a fast, accurate work pace and a positive, team-focused attitude.

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Work Experience

Design Team Leader at Christies Direct Ltd
September 1, 2025 - September 1, 2025
Promoted to creative lead within the company; responsible for the design team. Since 2023 I have also served as videographer and video editor, creating content for social channels to support marketing and brand storytelling.
Graphic Designer at Christies Direct Ltd
April 1, 2018 - April 1, 2018
Senior Designer working on catalogue design, exhibition/large-format design and production, print design, packaging/label design, web and email design, and brand identity. Managed large-format production and finishing; directed photo and video shoots and contributed to marketing plans.
Web and Print Designer at Redback Creations
October 1, 2014 - October 1, 2014
Main designer overseeing creative materials for a varied client base. Designed visual and UX concepts for brochure and ecommerce websites; built sites using Adobe products, HTML and CSS. Produced email campaigns, social graphics and print items to ensure consistent branding.
Senior Mac Artworker at Creative Media Advertising Ltd
April 1, 2008 - April 1, 2008
Maintained high standard artwork, supervised studio output, and expanded skill set to include website design and production.
Mac Artworker at Creative Media Advertising Ltd
February 1, 2005 - February 1, 2005
Produced and developed high-quality finished artwork to tight timelines and trained staff for OSX integration.
Graphic Designer / Studio Manager at The Printing Crew Ltd
April 1, 2000 - April 1, 2000
Managed a small studio within a printing company; created designs and artwork for local clients and prepared films for plate making; supported client accounts and quotes.
Graphic Designer at Smith Davis Press Ltd
August 1, 1998 - August 1, 1998
Designed internal newsletters and adverts; scanned and retouched photos for print.

Education

Higher National Diploma in Graphic Design at Stoke-on-Trent College
January 1, 1994 - January 1, 1996
Foundation Course in Art and Design at Stoke-on-Trent College
January 1, 1993 - January 1, 1994

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Retail, Consumer Goods, Other