Tom's mind is always working. It's not hyperbole, it's high praise. His creativity is on display every day. Just take a peek at the paper, or screen, in front of him. His doodles are merely one dimension of his visual sense of the world. He brings a whimsy and a sense of humor and humanity to his design projects as well. I've worked alongside Tom for several years and besides his professional cred, the secret sauce to his success—he's a nice guy.​ ​ Myles Rich, ACD, Leo Burnett

Thomas Helland

Tom's mind is always working. It's not hyperbole, it's high praise. His creativity is on display every day. Just take a peek at the paper, or screen, in front of him. His doodles are merely one dimension of his visual sense of the world. He brings a whimsy and a sense of humor and humanity to his design projects as well. I've worked alongside Tom for several years and besides his professional cred, the secret sauce to his success—he's a nice guy.​ ​ Myles Rich, ACD, Leo Burnett

Available to hire

Tom’s mind is always working. It’s not hyperbole, it’s high praise. His creativity is on display every day. Just take a peek at the paper, or screen, in front of him. His doodles are merely one dimension of his visual sense of the world. He brings a whimsy and a sense of humor and humanity to his design projects as well. I’ve worked alongside Tom for several years and besides his professional cred, the secret sauce to his success—he’s a nice guy.​

Myles Rich, ACD, Leo Burnett

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Senior Graphic Designer - Design Director at Tom Helland Design + Illustration
January 1, 2024 - Present
Directed design projects from concept to completion for high-profile clients including automotive brands (Ford, GMC, Buick, Jeep and Dodge), Reckitt Brands (Lysol PRO, Airwick, Resolve, Easy-Off), Home Depot, Road & Track, and MJM Yachts, delivering packaging, presentations, branding, and design assignments that adhered to consistent brand guidelines.
Group Design Director at Makerhouse
November 1, 2023 - September 22, 2025
Collaborated on digital, print, and event design solutions for national and international clients such as Ford Motor Company, Clayton Utz, and Apple, creating visually compelling and brand-consistent deliverables.
Associate Creative Director at Campbell Ewald
October 1, 2021 - September 22, 2025
Led design initiatives for clients including Harley-Davidson, Chevrolet, OnStar, Mutual of Omaha, Alliance for Lifetime Income, Meritage Homes, Travelocity, and Campbell Ewald, developing PowerPoint and Keynote decks for new business and corporate presentations while ensuring cohesive brand delivery.
Sr. Designer - Design Director at Leo Burnett
January 1, 2018 - September 22, 2025
Managed creative projects for Buick, GMC, and Leo Burnett/Publicis by co-leading a team to conceive and produce brochures and digital assets for print, websites, and social media, and redesigned agency spaces such as the lobby, kitchens, and community areas with custom furniture design.
Design Director at Organic
October 1, 2012 - September 22, 2025
Steered interactive design projects for clients including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Bank of America, Hilton Hotels, Smuckers, Kimberly-Clark, VW, Kia, and National Parks Service, delivering comprehensive solutions that maintained strict brand consistency across multiple platforms.

Education

BFA in Graphic Communication at College for Creative Studies
August 23, 1982 - May 24, 1985
Studied graphic communication with a minor in illustration

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Retail, Manufacturing, Transportation & Logistics, Consumer Goods
    Analog Illustration

    Whether doodling or painting, I like the tactile essence of creating art. Enjoy this array of pieces I’ve done over the past couple of years.